Victim Support responds to Daily Mirror on revenge porn

5 July 2016

Lucy Hastings, Director at independent charity Victim Support, said:

“The impact of revenge porn is far reaching and can be devastating for victims leaving them feeling deeply distressed, humiliated and powerless. Not only is it is a gross violation of privacy and trust, but the material is often sent to people victims know which can cause further stress and embarrassment.

“Victim Support believes that victims of revenge porn should be afforded the same automatic anonymity as victims of rape and other serious sexual offences. Without anonymity victims of revenge porn may face the prospect of having the offending images shared more widely and there is a risk that acts as a significant deterrent to reporting.

“Victims of revenge porn do not need to go to the police to access our services and can refer themselves securely and confidentially through our website or Supportline. Victim Support’s specially trained staff and volunteers offer free, confidential information and support to anyone affected by crime – regardless of when the crime took place or if the police are involved. Call our Supportline team on 08 08 16 89 111 or visit victimsupport.org.uk to find out how we can help.”