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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service

@orkneyrsas.bsky.social
85 followers 137 following 338 posts

We Believe You. Confidential support & advocacy for anyone 13+ in Orkney impacted by sexual violence. 01856872298 or contact@orsas.scot 26 Bridge Street , Kirkwall KW15 1HR linktr.ee/orkneyrsas

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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 16h
Coming out is a personal journey, and there’s no one right way or time to do it. Everyone deserves to feel safe, respected and accepted for who they are. Whether you’re out, not out, figuring things out or simply taking things at your own pace, you deserve support and kindness #NationalComingOutDay
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 07/10/2026
💜 See something? Say something. Don’t be a silent bystander. Creating a safer community is something we can all play a part in. Whether it’s witnessing harassment, abuse, discrimination or behaviour that doesn’t feel right, choosing not to look the other way can make a real difference. #EndViolence
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 05/10/2026
The Equality Hub has has so many international visitors this summer. It has been great to see new faces and great discussions with individuals from all over the world. We welcome you to pop into the hub from 10-2 Tuesday to Friday to have a chat & check out our latest exhibition.
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 02/10/2026
Prevention isn't just about stopping harm after it happens. It's also about creating the conditions where people can feel safe, respected and supported in the first place. Every one of us has a role in creating that kind of community. It starts with how we treat each other. 💜
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Rape Crisis England & Wales @rapecrisis.bsky.social · 01/10/2026
WE'VE GOT NEWS 🎉 If you're Deaf or hard of hearing, you can now use our 24/7 Support Line with a BSL interpreter through live video call. The BSL service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and is free to use. We are here for you 💜 247sexualabusesupport.org.uk
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 30/09/2026
Survivors have the right to decide if they want to report or not. It is no one’s decision but their own. We will support you whether you decide to report or not. Please get in touch 01856 872298 contact@orsas.scot
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 28/09/2026
The Sexual Assault Response Coordination Service (SARCS) provides free, confidential care for anyone aged 16 and over in the days following an assault. You can refer yourself at any time by calling 0800 148 88 88. www.nhsinform.scot/turn-to-sarcs/
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 25/09/2026
In our prevention session we often speak about the Alport scale and how sexist, homophobic and transphobic jokes and language can lead to serious physical and emotional harm. We need to stop this type of language before it results in harassment, threats and abuse or worse suicide, murder or rape.
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 23/09/2026
Bisexuality Visibility Day – 23 September 🩷💜💙 Bisexuality describes attraction to more than one gender, whether that attraction is romantic, emotional, sexual, or a combination. There is no single way to be bisexual, and bisexual people may experience attraction differently and to different degrees.
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 21/09/2026
If you are a survivor of sexual violence, harassment and/or abuse, whether in person or online, we are here for you. ORSAS provides free confidential support to anyone 13+ living, working or studying in Orkney. 💻 contact@orsas.scot ☎️ 01856872298 💜
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 18/09/2026
Status of Young Women in Scotland Survey Take the survey here: youngwomenscot.org/opportunitie... The Young Women's Movement eighth Status of Young Women in Scotland survey, looking at digital violence and its real-life impacts on young women in Scotland, is open now.
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 16/09/2026
#SHW26 Theme: Let’s Connect! At a time when the world is at our fingertips, why are so many people feeling detached from both each other and themselves? This #SexualHealthWeek we’re championing human connection across platonic, romantic and sexual relationships. Find out more: brook.org.uk/shw
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 14/09/2026
It's Sexual Health Week! Join @‌brook_charity_ LIVE from 10am on Tuesday 15 the September for the Brook and Movember’s BIG RSE Lesson: Let’s Connect Broadcast.
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 12/09/2026
Our communities are made up of people with different experiences, identities, beliefs & backgrounds. We don't have to agree on everything to share the same basic expectation: everyone deserves to be treated with dignity & respect. Difference shouldn't be a reason to bully, isolate or exclude someone
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 10/09/2026
Worried about someone? Reach out. Ask. Listen. Stay. 💛 For survivors of sexual violence and abuse, difficult feelings can continue long after what happened. Support is available. Samaritans: 116 123 (free, 24/7) ORSAS: Support for people affected by sexual violence, harassment & abuse in Orkney.
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 08/09/2026
You are not alone. We are here for you. As Suicide Prevention Day approaches later this week, we want to remind you that we are here for you. Or Contact Samaritans: If you need someone to talk to, they listen. They won't judge or tell you what to do. Call 116 123
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 06/09/2026
Othering is the process of labelling people as “different” or “not belonging,” creating social divisions that can lead to exclusion and discrimination. It doesn’t just reflect difference — it actively shapes who is included or pushed aside. It can happen in everyday life, institutions, and culture.
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 04/09/2026
It's always nice to hear positive feedback from the professionals we work with. Knowing we are making a difference makes all the long hours of preparation & hours of training worth it. Our prevention specialist will be back in schools this year to facilitate prevention sessions with S1-4 students.
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 02/09/2026
There is no right way to feel after sexual violence. Everyone responds to sexual violence differently. There is no “right” or “normal” way to feel & your response may change over time. Whatever you are feeling, your response is valid. You don’t have to make sense of it or compare it to anyone else.
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 31/08/2026
💜 Today we remember those who have lost their lives to overdose and stand with everyone affected. Overdose is a public health issue, not a reason for shame or stigma. Compassion, harm reduction and access to support can save lives. #IOAD2026 #EndOverdose 💜 #IOAD2026 #OverdoseAwarenessDay
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 29/08/2026
Status of Young Women in Scotland Survey youngwomenscot.org/opportunitie... The Young Women's Movement eighth Status of Young Women in Scotland survey, looking at digital violence & its real-life impacts on young women 16-30 in Scotland, is open now.
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 27/08/2026
Wherever you are today, we hope you remember this: you deserve kindness, support, and the time to heal in your own way. 💙
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 25/08/2026
For 5 years, Chloe Wooldrage has been sharing anonymous accounts of sexual assault from individuals in Orkney. Her goal is to dispel the myth that such crimes don't occur in rural island communities. 170 stories of sexual violence in Orkney have been featured on the Instagram account, @Tak_a_Stand.
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 21/08/2026
These funds will be used to purchase supplies for our Comet+ programme, which is designed to promote healthy, positive relationships and to support young people and adults in developing the knowledge, confidence, and skills needed to enhance their wellbeing and personal safety.
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 19/08/2026
Our latest news letter is out and now available. Catch up on what we have been doing over the last quarter, including our latest statistics and what we have coming up. Check the link in our bio.
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 17/08/2026
If you are a survivor of sexual violence, harassment and/or abuse, whether in person or online, we are here for you. ORSAS provides free confidential support to anyone 13+ living, working or studying in Orkney. 💻 contact@orsas.scot ☎️ 01856872298 💜
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 13/08/2026
We are here for you. 💜 We understand that deciding whether to report to the police is a deeply personal choice. For some, it can feel overwhelming or not like the right step & that is completely valid. Support is available to you whatever you decide.
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 11/08/2026
If you’ve experienced sexual assault or rape, support is available — and you don’t have to go through it on your own. You can refer yourself at any time by calling 0800 148 88 88. A member of the SARC team will get in touch to arrange the support you need. www.nhsinform.scot/turn-to-sarcs/
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 06/08/2026
No is a full sentence. Maybe is also a no. I'm not sure is also a no. Unless it is an enthusiastic verbal yes, it is a no. #consent #nomeansno
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 04/08/2026
With Show Week upon us, we want to remind everyone to always get enthusiastic verbal consent when engaging in any form of sexual activity. Listen to your partner and respect their answer no matter what it is. #nomeansno #consent #orkneyshowweek
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 30/07/2026
Consent doesn't end once sex begins. Removing a condom without your partner's consent (stealthing) is illegal in Scotland. Everyone has the right to make informed choices about their body. 💜 #Consent #Respect
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 28/07/2026
It was not your fault and it does not define you. Healing is a journey and we are here to support you through it. we are here for you. 01856 872 298 contact@orsas.scot
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 23/07/2026
We stand with every survivor of sexual violence — no matter when it happened, what form it took, or who you are. We’re here for you, your friends, and your family, with support that is respectful, non-judgmental, and trauma-informed. You are not alone.💜 💻 contact@orsas.scot ☎️ 01856872298
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 21/07/2026
We stand with every survivor of sexual violence — no matter when it happened, what form it took, or who you are. Here is some information on how to access support.💜 💻 contact@orsas.scot ☎️ 01856872298
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 03/07/2026
Trauma changes us. It changes us in ways we probably never expected and it can be hard to reconcile who we were before to who we are now. It's a part of the healing process. ORSAS is here to support you in your healing journey. Please call 01856 872298 or email contact@orsas.scot
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 01/07/2026
Pride month may have come to an end but our exhibition is still on until the end of July. We have had lots of visitors to Orkney pop in for a look recently. Nearly all of them state how nice it is to see LGBTQIA+ representation in such a small place. #pride #ally #inclusion #representation
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 29/06/2026
Our support of the LGBTQIA+ community isn't limited to pride month. We support anyone aged 13+ who has been affected by sexual violence, who lives, works or studies in Orkney. It doesn't matter your age, gender, ethnicity or sexual orientation we are here for you. 01856 872298 contact@orsas.scot
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 26/06/2026
Compliance is not consent. A yes after a no is not consent. A maybe is not consent. A previous yes is not consent. Being unconscious is not consent. Wearing a short skirt or revealing clothes is not consent. If it's not an enthusiastic yes, then it's not consent.
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 24/06/2026
Healing after trauma can sometimes feel unfamiliar. The person you are becoming may not feel like the person you were, but that doesn't mean you aren't growing. We are here to support you on your healing journey. 01856 872 298 contact@orsas.scot
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 22/06/2026
Pride is about visibility, community, and safety. Everyone deserves support that is inclusive, affirming, and trauma-informed. ORSAS supports survivors of all genders and sexualities. 💜 01856 872298 contact@orsas.scot
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 19/06/2026
The Forensic Medical Services Act is a change in law that took effect from 1st April 2022 which allows survivors to self-refer for Forensic Medical Exams (FMEs). This post explores what the self-referral process will look like, no matter what decisions you make after it.
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 17/06/2026
If you’ve experienced sexual assault or rape, support is available — and you don’t have to go through it on your own. You can refer yourself at any time by calling 0800 148 88 88. A member of the SARC team will get in touch to arrange the support you need. www.nhsinform.scot/turn-to-sarcs/
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 15/06/2026
1 in 3 women & 1 in 6 men will experience sexual violence in their lifetimes. This unfortunately means someone you know has or will experience sexual violence. Listen to them without judgment, believe them, support their choices, remind them they aren't alone, guide them to resources
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 12/06/2026
As excitement builds around the World Cup, it's important to remember that major sporting events can sometimes lead to an increase in violence & abuse. Abuse happens in Orkney too. It can affect anyone, regardless of age or background. Behind the celebrations, some may be living with fear & control
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 10/06/2026
At ORSAS we support anyone 13+ affected by sexual violence who lives, works or studies in Orkney, of any gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity or religion. We are believe you, we are here for you. 01856 872 298 contact@orsas.scot
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 08/06/2026
We have revamped our information poster after spotting an outdated version in the wild recently. Would you like one of these to hang in your office or a public space? Please get in touch by emailing us with your information and where we can post or deliver the poster and how many you would like.
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 05/06/2026
We have a new exhibition for Pride Month. We invite you to pop in and take a look at our new exhibition. We are open Tuesday - Friday from 10AM-2PM* from now until the start of August 2026. 🌈 OPEN 10-12 ON SAT 6 JUNE FOR PRIDE We look forward to seeing you. *please note opening times may vary.
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 03/06/2026
June is Pride Month — a time to celebrate LGBTQ+ communities, visibility, and equality. 🌈 Pride began as a protest, and today it remains both a celebration and a reminder of the importance of inclusion, acceptance, and equal rights for all. ✨
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 01/06/2026
Happy Pride Month! 🌈✨ This June, we celebrate love, identity, community, and the ongoing fight for equality. Wishing everyone a safe, joyful, and inclusive Pride Month. 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️
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Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service @orkneyrsas.bsky.social · 29/05/2026
If you have a young person with additional support needs &/or is care experienced, who may benefit from a few one on one prevention sessions, please get in touch. This is not a therapeutic support service. It would be a conflict of interest for us to support anyone who has been violent or coercive
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