Rape Myths

We are surrounded by rape myths. GRASAC, alongside Rape Crisis England & Wales, work hard to shatter these myths and give survivors the support they deserve.

Click on the myths below to reveal the facts!

Myth
"If she'd really been raped then it wouldn't have taken her so long to say something."
Fact

For many people, experiencing rape or another form of sexual violence or abuse can be a very difficult thing to talk about – and it might be a long time before they feel able to. This can be for lots of different reasons. They might feel like they'll be judged or blamed or not believed. Or they might be scared of their perpetrator or another person finding out.

Myth
"Men don't get raped."
Fact

Men and boys are raped and sexually assaulted every day in England and Wales – in fact, one in 20 men have experienced rape or sexual assault as an adult. Sexual violence and abuse can have a lasting and serious impact on the lives and wellbeing of men and boys, just as it can for women and girls.

Myth
"Women are 'asking for it' if they wear revealing clothes or flirt."
Fact

Women and girls have the right to wear whatever they want and behave however they want without being raped or sexually assaulted. As does everyone. There is never any excuse for rape or sexual assault.

Myth
"If she didn't say 'no' then it wasn't rape."
Fact

Not saying ‘no’ is not the same as someone giving their consent. If someone seems unsure, stays quiet, moves away or doesn’t respond, they are not agreeing to sexual activity.

By having open conversations on consent, you can help us to challenge outdated attitudes and bring about positive change.

View A-Z of Consent

Get help

We recognise that reporting to the Police something that has happened without your consent, can feel intimidating and overwhelming.

Click the button relevant to your age group so we can direct you to the correct service for your situation and put you on the right path.