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Navigating Trauma: Understanding the Brain’s Automatic Responses to Sexual Violence

Posted on May 28 2024 at 08:30

It can be hard to understand why we reacted the way we did in distressing or traumatic situation, Read our blog below to understand what’s happening in our brain in these situations and why re reacted the way we did.

[TW: mentions of rape, & sexual violence]

[Read Time: 2-3 mins]

How do I respond to a disclosure of sexual violence?

Posted on May 23 2024 at 08:30

Although, it can be really difficult and painful for us to hear, when someone trusts us enough to disclose that they have experienced sexual violence, how we respond matters. It’s a moment that demands compassion, sensitivity, and a commitment to providing the right kind of support. In this blog, we provided steps a person can take when supporting an adult survivor of sexual violence. From staying calm and present to empowering survivors to make their own choices, each step plays a crucial role in creating a safe and supportive environment for the survivor. You can use these four steps as guide if an adult discloses to you.

[Read time: 3-4 min]

Trumps Says ‘Deny Deny Deny,’ But We Will Believe You & We Will Support You

Posted on May 14 2024 at 15:12

“You’ve got to deny, deny, deny and push back on these women. You’ve got to be strong. You’ve got to be aggressive. You’ve got to push back hard. You’ve got to deny anything that’s said about you.” Donald Trump, according to veteran journalist Bob Woodward’s book, “Fear: Trump in the White House”.

[TW: mentions of abuse, sexual violence, & rape culture]

[Read Time: 1-2 mins]

The “Man v Bear” Thought Experiment

Posted on May 9 2024 at 14:34

Our support worker, Rhiannon, mulls over the viral ‘Man v Bear’ debate, and what it means to move through society as a women.

[TW: mentions of abuse, death, & descriptions of sexual violence]

[Read Time: 3-4 mins]

Review: Baby Reindeer

Posted on April 29 2024 at 11:50

Our fantastic Centre Manager, Elaine, has taken time to pull together some of her thoughts on Netflix’s hit new show “Baby Reindeer”. Created-by and starring Richard Gadd this mini-series explores the true story of Gadd’s experiences of stalking and sexual abuse.

[TW: mentions of sexual violence, grooming, stalking, victim-blaming, and stigmatising language]

[Read Time: 4-5mins]

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🌟 We're Hiring! 🌟
The STAR Centre: Rape Crisis Ayrshire is seeking a passionate and motivated Sexual Violence Prevention Worker to join our feminist, women-led organisation.

📍 Based in Ayrshire
💼 Hours: 910 annually (annualised contract)
💰 Salary: £27,295 pro rata
🌴 Annual Leave: 140 hours (inclusive of public & bank holidays)

You'll deliver the Rape Crisis Scotland Prevention Programme to young people across Ayrshire, helping to challenge inequality and prevent gender-based violence at its roots.

✨ If you're committed to feminist values and making real change, we want to hear from you!

📅 Deadline: 12 noon, 22nd August
📥 You can download full details and the application pack from our website or request an application pack: admin@starcentreayrshire.org

🗓️ Interviews: Week commencing 1st September
📅 Funded until March 2026 (with continuation funding being sought)

Please note: Women only need apply under Schedule 9, Part 1 of the Equality Act 2010.

#JobAlert #AyrshireJobs #FeministJobs #ViolencePrevention #WomenLed #NowHiring #JoinOurTeam #EndGBV #RapeCrisisScotlandJobs #AnyBodyAnyTypeAnyTime

Stop saying sorry 💜
You don’t need to apologise for taking up space, setting boundaries, feeling deeply, or protecting your time.

You are allowed to rest.
You are allowed to feel.
You are allowed to put yourself first.

At The STAR Centre, we’re here to remind you: you never have to shrink yourself to be worthy of care. 💐

#NoMoreApologies #BoundariesAreHealthy #SurvivorSupport #AnybodyAnyTypeAnyTime

✨ Daily Self-Care Habits ✨
Self-care isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity.
Small daily habits can create space for healing, comfort, and strength. Whether it’s taking a walk, drinking water, journaling, or simply breathing with intention, your care matters.

There’s no “right” way to show up for yourself. Go gently.
You are not alone.💜

#DailySelfCare #SelfCareHabits #MentalHealthMatters #AnyBodyAnyTypeAnyTime

Today is World Day Against Trafficking in Persons.
Sex trafficking is a brutal form of gender-based violence, and it’s happening in our communities. Victims are often trapped through coercion, manipulation, and fear. Many are survivors of rape and violence.

At The STAR Centre, we support survivors of sex trafficking with trauma-informed care, advocacy, and a safe space to begin healing. No one should ever be exploited for someone else's gain.💜

#WorldDayAgainstTraffickingInPersons #EndSexTrafficking #RapeCrisisSupport #AnyBodyAnyTypeAnyTime

For some survivors of sexual violence, sex can trigger flashbacks.

A flashback is when you re-experience a frightening or painful event from the past. It tends not to be like an ordinary memory, but more a sudden and unexpected intrusion. Flashbacks can present differently from person to person, but can be very distressing.

A flashback is part of your body's way of processing or reaching some understanding about what happened. It is not something you choose to do, and is not necessarily a reflection on the person you're with.

If you can speak to your partner about your experience of sexual violence, it may allow you to explain your flashbacks and agree in advance what you want to do if this happens. If you are struggling with flashbacks during sex, it is okay to take time out from the sexual side of your relationship. Your partner should respect your choice and support you .

If you are not able to, or don’t want to disclose your experience with your partner, you may find it helpful to establish boundaries within your intimate relationship and highlight what you are and are not comfortable with. Your partner may ask questions about this but remember, you do not have to disclose your experience if you are not comfortable doing so.

#Relationships #SupportSurvivors #SexualViolenceAwareness #Love #Trauma #Intimacy #Sexual Violence

💜 💜 💜

#Quotes #Reminder #SelfLove #SelfAcceptance

💜 Want to support survivors of sexual violence? Our Amazon Wish List is filled with comforting, supportive items like bath bombs, journals, lavender spray, and other self-care essentials. Each item goes directly to a survivor, offering a small but powerful reminder that they are seen, valued, and supported.

✨ Check out the link in our bio or visit our website
.
#AmazonWishList #SupportSurvivors #SelfCareIsSupport #AnyBodyAnyTypeAnyTime

Just a reminder 💜

The STAR Centre is always here for you.

#YouAreNotAlone #SupportForSurvivors #RapeCrisisSupport #TraumaInformedCare #AnyBodyAnyTypeAnyTime

📢 If you or someone you know has been raped or sexually assaulted while abroad, you're not alone and help is available—whether you're still overseas or back in Scotland. If you normally live in Ayrshire The STAR Centre can provide free & confidential advice and support to you once you are back home.

In the meantime, please remember:
🔹 You don’t have to report to the police—it’s your choice.
🔹 The Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) can help with medical care, translation, and support.
🔹 @rapecrisisscot 's helpline offers free, confidential help—wherever you are.
🔹 Sexual violence is NEVER your fault.

Find out more about the Rape Crisis Scotland Helpline Here:
💬 Support is available daily, 5pm–12am (GMT)
📞 Freephone UK: 08088 01 03 02
📞 From abroad: +44 (0)141 331 2715
🌐 www.rapecrisisscotland.org.uk

Contact us at the STAR Centre:
📞01563 544686
📧 admin@starcentreayrshire.org
🌐 www.starcentreayrshire.org

#SupportForSurvivors #RapeCrisisScotland #YouAreNotAlone #TravelSupport #ScotlandAbroad

Dealing with flashbacks can be overwhelming, but help is available. 💜
We’re proud to offer free resources from Rape Crisis Scotland on our website to help you understand and manage flashbacks.
Download them anytime via the link in our bio. 🔗
#Flashbacks #RapeCrisisScotland #FreeResources #AnyBodyAnyTypeAnyTime

This summer we have set up a number of walking groups for survivors of sexual violence using our service to encourage healing and to strengthen their connection with each other and with nature 🍃 Here are some pictures from the first one in Dean Park! 🦆 🦌

Navigating news about gender-based and sexual violence can be really difficult, especially when victim-blaming narratives flood the conversation. It’s okay to recognise when it’s too much and give yourself permission to step back. Remember, taking care of your mental health isn’t just okay, it’s necessary. You’re not alone in this, and The STAR Centre is here to support you. Always.

#StopVictimBlaming #GenderBasedViolence #SexualViolence #SelfCare #SocialMediaBreak #SupportSurvivors #WereHere #YoureNotAlone #AnyBodyAnyTypeAnyTime

A few weeks ago we did a post on the impacts that sexual violence can have on someone's sexual and romantic #relationships. Here are 4 self-care tips for survivors of sexual violence when it comes to managing relationships

For more information on the impact of sexual violence on relationships, visit our blog: https://buff.ly/SjYJTqz

#Relationships #SupportSurvivors #SexualViolenceAwareness #Love #Trauma #Intimacy #Sexual Violence

🌍 Want to see how our prevention team is making an impact in the community?
📍 Follow their work in real time on our interactive map:
👉 www.starcentreayrshire.org/prevention-tracker

#CommunitySupport #PreventionMatters #MakingADifference #STARCentre #Ayrshire #PreventionInAction

Festival season is here! The glitter’s on, the music’s loud, and the fields are filling up.
But while we celebrate the freedom and fun, there’s a hard truth we need to face

🎪 1 in 5 women will experience sexual assault or harassment at a music festival
🎶 43% of women under 40 say they’ve faced unwanted sexual behaviour at festivals

This is not the vibe

No one should have to trade safety for a good time. Harassment and assault have no place in festival culture, on or off the dancefloor

Respect the crowd. Respect the space. Respect each other

💛 The STAR Centre is always here for you, to support and help whenever you need it

#GlitterAndConsent #SafeFestivals #FestivalSafety #EndHarassment #AnyBodyAnyTypeAnyTime

Each person's reaction to sexual violence is unique, with no correct way to handle trauma. Such experiences can lead to immediate and long-term physical, emotional, and sexual health issues, affecting trust and intimacy even years later. For more on how sexual violence impacts relationships, visit our blog (link in bio).

#Relationships #SupportSurvivors #SexualViolenceAwareness #Love #Trauma #Intimacy #SexualViolence

🚨Propaganda We Won’t Fall For 🚨

At The STAR Centre, we hear the same harmful myths repeated again and again, not just by individuals, but reinforced through media, institutions, and systems of power. It’s time to call them what they are: propaganda that protects perpetrators and silences survivors.

We will never buy into lies like:

🔻 “False accusations are common”
🔻 “If it really happened, they would want to report it”
🔻 “Men can't be victims”
🔻 “They're making it up for attention”
🔻 “Only strangers commit sexual assault”

These statements are not just untrue; they’re dangerous. They prevent survivors from coming forward. They allow abusers to walk free. And they create a culture where shame, doubt, and stigma thrive.

At The STAR Centre, we believe survivors. We know that sexual violence is complex, underreported, and deeply personal, and that survivors of all genders, backgrounds, and experiences deserve support, not suspicion.

We won’t stay silent. And we won’t fall for the propaganda.

💜 #PropagandaIWontFallFor #RapeMyths #AnyBodyAnyTypeAnyTime

Chris Brown has recently made headlines in the UK for continuing his European Stadium Tour whilst due in court for allegations of grievous bodily harm. Over the years Brown has been accused of rape, sexual assault, domestic violence, assault, and fraud. Yet he still has thousands of fans that support him.

There are longstanding debates over whether we can ever truly separate the art from the artist. However, there are somethings that are certain:
⚫ Everyone (whether they’re aware of it or not) knows someone that has experienced sexual or gender-based violence;
⚫ Saying that allegations of sexual violence, assault and domestic abuse are “just one of those things” normalises these behaviours;
⚫ Saying that people make up allegations of abuse just for money or because they’re jealous harms those that do come forward;
⚫ Saying “he hasn’t killed anyone” minimises the things he has been accused of doing;
⚫ Survivors of sexual and gender-based violence will hear these things.

Gender-based violence should never be normalised, excused or minimised. If you care about issues like sexual violence, domestic abuse, or violence against women its time to hold abusers accountable, even if it is someone you like.

#ChrisBrown #ChristBrownTour ##ChrisBrown #BreezyBowl #Hampden #music #ArtVsArtist #ChrisBrownTour #MeToo #SupportSurvivors #Accountability

🌈✨ As Pride month draws to a close we want to remind everyone that at The Star Centre, we proudly support survivors of every gender & sexuality all year round. Love is love, and everyone deserves to feel believed, safe, & supported. 💜 #AnybodyAnyTypeAnyTime