Only 6% of sex assaults carried out by strangers

SEXUAL violence is most likely to happen in the home or by a relative or partner of the victim, according to analysis of reports to support services last year.

Statistics reveal that 90% of perpetrators of one-off incidents of rape or sexual violence notified to Rape Crisis Network Ireland (RCNI) last year were known to the victim, with one in three being family members or other relatives.

But the family home or the home of the victim emerged as the location of most incidents, prompting a warning that people should look closely at relationships within their circles of trust.

Strangers accounted for 6% of perpetrators and, for adults reporting abuse suffered as a child, the number of incidents involving a stranger was 3%. Among those who reported being subjected to sexual violence as children, under half the perpetrators were family members or relatives and 30% were friends, acquaintances and neighbours.

One-in-four victims who contacted RCNI in 2010 about a single incident — as distinct from repeated abuse or a pattern of sexual violence — had suffered in at home. Partners were the perpetrators in one in nine cases against adults and ex-partners were responsible for over one in six cases

RCNI director Fiona Neary said: “Home is more often that not where the sexual harm is. Coming into this Christmas season, women in particular will be warned to stay safe and vigilant around strangers when they are out for the festivities.”

She said people must challenge aggressive behaviour, bullying and manipulation by those they know.

* RCNI’s 24-hour helpline is 1800 778888. or visit rcni.ie for contact details of your nearest centre.