Seeking help after sexual abuse is a brave step, and support should be accessible to all New Zealanders. Solora provides compassionate, confidential, and ACC-funded sexual abuse support services across the country. Our goal is to meet your unique needs and provide guidance and care as you navigate this difficult time.
The support we offer is fully confidential, and it is always okay to ask for help.
Understanding Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence
Sexual abuse and sexual violence refer to any situation in which one person pressures or forces another into sexual activity without their consent. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Rape and attempted rape
- Unwanted kissing or touching
- Interfering with birth control or STD protection
- Sexual contact with someone unable to consent due to age or impairment
- Sexual coercion or manipulation
Sexual abuse can affect people of any age, gender, sexuality, ethnicity, or social background. It is always the responsibility of the perpetrator, never the survivor. Survivors can experience harm regardless of when the abuse occurred, and there is no time limit for seeking support.
Common Signs and Impacts
Each survivor reacts differently to sexual abuse. There is no “normal” response, but some common indicators include:
In Adults
- Depression, anxiety, shame, or low self-esteem
- Symptoms of post-traumatic stress, such as flashbacks or intrusive memories
- Dissociation or feeling disconnected from self or surroundings
- Chronic pain or other physical symptoms
- Self-destructive behaviour or addiction, sometimes used as coping mechanisms
In Children
In addition to the above, children may display:
- Bedwetting or psychosomatic complaints
- Attention-seeking behaviour
- Age regression or developmental delays
No single sign confirms sexual abuse, and survivors may not show any of these indicators.
Everyone Reacts Differently
Emotional, psychological, and physical reactions to sexual abuse vary widely. Feelings of shock, numbness, confusion, anger, or anxiety are all normal. Conversely, some survivors may feel none of these reactions – this is also valid.
Healing is unique to each individual. Therapy and specialised sexual abuse support can provide coping tools, strategies, and guidance for moving forward. Speaking with a trusted professional and establishing healthy routines can support recovery.
First Steps to Take
If you have experienced sexual abuse, know that you are not alone. You may take action at your own pace. Suggested first steps include:
- Ensuring your physical safety from ongoing abuse; reach out to trusted friends, family, or support organisations
- Visiting a GP for medical advice or documentation if needed
- Writing down details of the abuse if you are able
- Contacting a trusted sexual abuse support service, such as Solora
Police involvement is not required to access support. Some survivors choose to pursue legal accountability, while others do not. Both choices are valid.
Supporting Someone Else
Supporting a survivor can be challenging. Your presence, patience, and listening without judgment are invaluable.
Key ways to help:
- Listen without judgment
- Validate the survivor’s experience
- Avoid pressuring them to act or disclose before they are ready
- Encourage professional support when appropriate
Support services are also available for whanau and friends to help them navigate the process.
How Solora Can Help
Solora offers guidance and support through every step of recovery. Our services include:
- Sensitive claims support: We can help you navigate ACC sexual abuse claims, ensuring fully funded support
- Care coordination and referrals: We organise the right support to make the process simple and safe
- Culturally responsive counselling: We match survivors with care that respects their cultural values
- Ongoing emotional and practical support: We provide guidance and advocacy throughout your recovery
Our services are accessible to everyone, with no judgment and no requirement to share details you are not ready to disclose.
Support for Everyone
Our services are available to all survivors, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexuality, or background. Male survivors, LGBTQ+ survivors, and those from diverse communities are fully supported.
There is no requirement to remember or recount the abuse in order to receive help. Our aim is to make accessing care safe, welcoming, and straightforward.
About Our Team
Solora’s team consists of experienced professionals trained in providing trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and confidential support.
Our team is committed to:
- Respectful and confidential care
- Cultural responsiveness
- Trauma-informed practice
- Walking alongside you throughout your recovery
ACC-Funded Support
All our sexual abuse services are funded by ACC. Financial concerns should never prevent access to support. Our team can guide you through any required paperwork and manage ACC claims on your behalf, helping remove barriers to care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the support confidential?
Yes. All services are provided with strict confidentiality.
Do I need to involve the police?
No. You can access support with police involvement.
Can I access help years after the abuse?
Yes. There is no time limit for seeking support.
How do ACC sensitive claims work?
ACC sensitive claims fully fund treatment and assessment. Solora can guide you through the process.
Can I resume ACC-funded therapy if I had to stop?
Yes. Our team can help reopen your claim and continue your recovery journey.
Getting in Touch
Solora provides sexual abuse support across New Zealand. You can contact us via:
- Phone: 0800 276 802 (available 24/7)
- Email: [email protected]
- Self-referral or ACC referral
- Using the contact form on our website
If you mention Solora when engaging with ACC or your GP, our team will follow up directly. Support is strictly confidential, and you can contact us for guidance or questions at any time.
