The identity of an LGBTQ+ sexual assault survivor was found to be the reason for their attack in more than half of cases by a new study.
Content warning: This story may include topics that could make some readers feel uncomfortable. Almost 1,000 LGBTQ+ sexual assault survivors were surveyed by Galop as part of the research, with 53% believing their attacks were linked to, or the result of, their identity.
One in five victims never told anyone about their ordeal and, of the 82% of people who did share what they experienced with someone, only one in three had done so within six months of the incident taking place.
It was also determined that two-thirds (67%) of respondents experienced an increase in suicidal thoughts because of their assault.