Learning disability and autism support

We have a specialist service for women and non-binary people affected by rape and sexual abuse who are autistic and/or have a learning disability, disabilities, and communication support needs.

The information on this page is also available in EASY READ.

How to contact SARSAS

What support can I get?

1-1 Specialist Support Work
Your support worker will:

  • make sure you feel safe
  • give you practical support such as writing a letter or talking to other support services
  • give you emotional support such as information on improving your mental health and healthy relationships.

We understand that not everyone will communicate in the same way. We will support you in the way that works best for you.

Our specialist support service can be face-to-face in Bristol or Taunton. In other areas, you can get support on the telephone or online (Microsoft Teams).

We also provide workshops and training around sexual consent.

**We have chosen to use ‘identity-first’ language when talking about autistic people. This means that we say ‘autistic people’ rather than ‘people with autism’.
This is based on feedback from our lived experience advisory group, who have told us that this is their preferred language.
**

Questions you might have

Safeguarding and privacy information

Support and information

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Cover your tracks

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Friends and family resources

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General information

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I need help

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Information on rape and sexual abuse

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Refer yourself

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SARSAS self-help guides

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Support services

The latest from our news and blogs

SARC

What is a sexual assault referral centre (SARC)?

A SARC can offer free, confidential medical, practical and emotional support to people who have been raped, sexually abused or assaulted at any point in their lives. They’re usually provided by the NHS, but will always have specially trained doctors, nurses and support workers.

UoB_Stall with Safelink

We’re Here: a campaign for survivors of sexual assault in Bristol

Over the past few weeks, we’ve been proud to be part of something really special. The “We’re Here” campaign launched across Bristol to let survivors of sexual assault know: you’re not alone, and there is support.

Screenshot 2025-03-07 121744

Be the change: how to be an Active Bystander

We can all be bystanders. Every day events unfold around us. At some point, we will register someone in danger. When this happens, we can decide to do or say something (and become an active bystander), or to let it go (and remain a passive bystander).