“Can You Hear Me? I’m Right Here”: Voluntary Sector’s Treatment of Rape Victims

Abstract

This paper explores the voluntary sector’s treatment of male rape victims in England, with the use of fresh empirical data. The paper focuses on the voluntary agencies’ attitudes towards and responses to male rape victims. The author uses semi-structured interviews and qualitative questionnaires to collate the data; the sample utilised for the current study is composed of seventeen male rape counsellors, therapists, and voluntary agency caseworkers. The study began in 2014 and ended in 2017; it took place in the North, West, and South of England. The findings reveal that the development of Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) and Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVAs), which both provide services and support for victims of rape and sexual assault, is beneficial for the victims. They are notable and commendable developments, helping to draw in male victims of rape especially if they are reluctant to engage with the police. Some voluntary agency practitioners are perpetuating gender and sexuality norms when they serve male rape victims in the voluntary sector; they may not have sufficient knowledge and understanding of male rape; some use discretion when responding to male rape victims; and some voluntary agencies do not maintain regular and consistent contact with male rape victims up until the trials as they are not given regular updates regarding their cases. The third sector must have appropriate knowledge and understanding about male rape. Otherwise, poor or inappropriate services can be directed towards male rape victims. Training in voluntary agencies needs to be robust.