Handling Allegations of Sexual Assault
Security officers are often the first point of contact for individuals who report a sexual assault. It is crucial that security personnel respond professionally, sensitively, and in line with legal protocols to ensure the victim’s safety and preserve evidence.
This guide will cover:
✔️ Recognising sexual assault allegations
✔️ Immediate actions security officers must take
✔️ Legal and organisational reporting procedures
✔️ How to handle disclosures sensitively
1. Understanding Sexual Assault and the Security Officer’s Role
Sexual assault is any non-consensual sexual act or behaviour that violates a person’s bodily autonomy. It includes:
✅ Sexual harassment – Unwanted verbal, physical, or digital sexual advances.
✅ Sexual coercion – Pressuring someone into sexual activity through intimidation.
✅ Physical sexual assault – Any unwanted touching, groping, or rape.
✅ Upskirting or voyeurism – Filming or photographing a person without consent.
Security Officers’ Responsibilities in Sexual Assault Cases
🔹 Provide immediate safety and support for the victim.
🔹 Follow organisational reporting procedures.
🔹 Preserve potential evidence and ensure a lawful response.
🔹 Prevent further harm by handling situations sensitively and efficiently.
Security officers are not investigators but must follow legal and workplace protocols when handling sexual assault allegations.
2. Immediate Actions Security Officers Must Take
When a victim of sexual assault approaches you, follow these five critical steps:
Step 1: Ensure the Victim’s Immediate Safety
🔹 Move the victim to a private, secure area away from the alleged perpetrator.
🔹 Offer reassurance and listen without judgment.
🔹 If the perpetrator is present, inform your supervisor or call law enforcement.
🔹 Avoid touching or physically restraining the victim unless necessary for safety.
Step 2: Contact the Authorities (If Required)
🚨 In cases of immediate danger, call 999 (UK emergency services).
🚨 If the victim requests police involvement, assist them in making a report.
🚨 If the victim is injured, arrange medical assistance immediately.
Step 3: Preserve Evidence (Do Not Investigate)
🔹 Advise the victim to avoid changing clothes, washing, or using the toilet to preserve DNA evidence.
🔹 If the incident happened in a specific area, restrict access to preserve CCTV footage.
🔹 If there are witnesses, document their details and ensure police can contact them.
Step 4: Follow Organisational Reporting Procedures
🔹 Report the incident to your supervisor or duty manager.
🔹 Complete an incident report with accurate details (time, date, location, description).
🔹 Do not disclose details to anyone except authorised personnel.
Step 5: Provide Emotional Support
🔹 Remain calm and composed to help the victim feel secure.
🔹 Offer support resources such as victim helplines or medical services.
🔹 If the victim does not wish to report to police, respect their decision while offering help.
3. How to Handle a Disclosure of Sexual Assault
A disclosure occurs when a victim tells you about a sexual assault they have experienced. Your response must be professional and empathetic.
The "S.A.F.E." Approach to Handling Disclosures:
✅ S – Stay Calm
- Keep a neutral, supportive tone.
- Avoid showing shock or disbelief.
✅ A – Assess the Situation
- Ask, “Are you safe right now?”
- Determine if immediate intervention is needed.
✅ F – Follow Procedures
- Offer help contacting the police or medical services.
- Report to your supervisor immediately.
✅ E – Empower the Victim
- Let them decide what actions they want to take.
- Provide resources for further support.
🚨 DO NOT:
❌ Ask unnecessary questions that might make the victim relive the trauma.
❌ Make assumptions about what happened.
❌ Investigate or confront the accused person yourself.
4. Reporting and Legal Compliance
All security officers must follow UK laws and workplace policies regarding sexual assault allegations.
Key Reporting Steps:
📌 Internal Reporting – Notify your supervisor or venue manager immediately.
📌 Police Reporting – If required, assist the victim in contacting law enforcement.
📌 Incident Documentation – Record only factual information (no opinions/speculations).
📌 Confidentiality – Never discuss the incident with unauthorised individuals.
💡 Note: Under the UK’s Sexual Offences Act 2003, security officers have a legal duty to report serious crimes such as rape, sexual assault, and child exploitation.
5. Best Practices for Security Officers
Security officers can prevent sexual violence and create safer environments by implementing proactive safety measures.
Preventative Actions:
🔹 Increase Security Presence – Regular patrols deter potential offenders.
🔹 Monitor CCTV – Keep an eye on suspicious behaviour in vulnerable areas.
🔹 Control Venue Access – Ensure intoxicated or aggressive individuals are refused entry.
🔹 Enforce Alcohol Policies – Prevent overserving to reduce risks of vulnerability.
🔹 Educate Staff & Patrons – Promote Ask for Angela and similar safety initiatives.
🚨 Emergency Contact Procedures:
- 999 (UK Emergency Services) – If someone is in immediate danger.
- Venue Management – If working on private premises.
- Crisis Support Services – Provide victims with resources like Victim Support UK (0808 168 9111).
