The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) is calling on people across Northern Ireland to confront harmful misconceptions about sexual crime and stand with victims in minority communities as part of National Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week (3–8 February 2026).

Sexual crime can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity or disability. Yet victims from minority communities often face extra hurdles to reporting abuse or accessing help. In 2025, 4,360 sexual crimes, including online, were reported to the PSNI. Of these, 1,690 involved women, 2,238 involved children and 326 involved men. In the same period, 1,081 arrests were made, leading to 297 charges — a 3% rise in arrests compared with 2024.

Detective Superintendent Kerry Brennan, from the PSNI's Public Protection Branch, said: "One of the most damaging myths around sexual crime is that it only affects certain people or communities. The reality is that sexual abuse and sexual violence sadly affects children, women and men from all backgrounds, including LGBTQ+ people, people with disabilities and those from ethnic minority communities.

"We know that many victims in these communities experience heightened fear, shame or isolation, and may worry they won't be believed or understood. Our message is clear: sexual crime is never the victim's fault, and we want to listen, support and protect you."

The PSNI is asking the public to be aware of indicators that someone may be experiencing sexual abuse or sexual violence, including:

- Sudden changes in behaviour, mood or confidence

- Withdrawal from friends, family or activities

- Anxiety, fear, or signs of distress around certain people or places

- Unexplained injuries or changes in personal boundaries

- Increased use of alcohol or substances

- For children, regression in behaviour or sudden changes in school engagement

Friends, relatives and carers often notice these changes first and can play a vital part in helping victims seek support.

Detective Superintendent Brennan added: "For many victims in minority communities, there are real and understandable barriers to reporting. These may include fear of discrimination, cultural stigma, language barriers, concerns about immigration status, lack of accessible services, or previous negative experiences with authority.

"We are committed to addressing these barriers and ensuring our response is respectful, trauma-informed and inclusive. Reporting can happen in different ways, and support is available whether someone chooses to report immediately, later, or not at all." People can report directly to police, via a trusted third party, or with the support of specialist organisations such as The Rowan — Northern Ireland's regional Sexual Assault Referral Centre. The Rowan offers medical care, emotional support and forensic examinations in a safe setting. Importantly, victims can choose to have forensic evidence collected and securely stored at The Rowan without making an immediate report to police, giving them time to decide if and when to pursue a criminal investigation or prosecution. More information: therowan.hscni.net/

"Taking that first step can feel overwhelming," Detective Superintendent Brennan said. "Knowing that support and evidence preservation are available, without pressure to proceed, can make a crucial difference. The choice is always with the victim."

The PSNI is urging anyone who has experienced sexual abuse or sexual violence, or anyone worried about another person, to come forward. Reports can be made directly to police, through a trusted third party, or with the support of specialist organisations.

"If something doesn't feel right, trust that instinct," Detective Superintendent Brennan added. "By challenging myths, listening without judgement and encouraging reporting, we can help protect people and prevent further harm."

Robert (not his real name), 49, was seven when he was sexually abused by his friend's older brother, who was in his 20s. The abuse continued until Robert was 10. He disclosed the abuse as an adult, and the perpetrator was arrested and charged; the case was progressing through the criminal justice system when the perpetrator died unexpectedly. Although he never had his day in court, Robert does not regret reporting and is speaking out to encourage others.

"I was seven years old when I was sexually abused. For years, I carried that silence into adulthood, convinced it was too late to speak and that no one would listen. Reporting non-recent abuse comes with real barriers — fear, shame, fragmented memories, and the worry of not being believed. As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, I also struggled with the added fear of stigma and misunderstanding as now an adult but your identity does not reduce and skew your experiences.

"Speaking out was one of the hardest things I've ever done, but it was also one of the most powerful. I want others to know that your experience matters, no matter how long ago it happened, and who you are does not make your voice any less valid. Breaking the silence is possible — and support is there when you're ready."

Anyone affected by sexual abuse or sexual violence can contact police on 101, online, or 999 in an emergency.