MSAS (for males) - The Solace Centre

Male Sexual Assault Support
(MSAS)

MSAS is a male-specific project operating across Kent, Surrey and Sussex to support men and boys who have experienced sexual assault. Our Male Outreach Workers engage with agencies and organisations nationally, to raise awareness of SARCs (Sexual Assault Referral Centres) and the options available to men and boys.

How we can help

To speak with an MSAS Outreach Worker, call us on 0300 130 3038, Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm.

Our service runs alongside all our SARC services:

Immediate over-the-phone support and referrals to specialist services including counselling and Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVA) support
In-person crisis support at the SARC
Free training for external organisations and professionals on SARCs and sexual assault. To book a training session with our team please call 0300 130 3038 or email us sarc.msas@mountainhealthcare.co.uk

You will be offered these services based on your individual needs and you can choose to use as much or as little of our service as you wish.

Visitors need an appointment before attending the SARC in person. Please call us to make an appointment.

Myths surrounding sexual assault

Males who have experienced sexual assault may face some barriers due to stigma. There are many myths about rape and sexual assault and other types of sexual violence.

Myth : People who have been sexually abused are likely to become a perpetrator.

Fact : Most survivors of sexual violence will not become the perpetrator of sexual violence.

Myth : Men cannot and do not get sexually assaulted or raped.

Fact : This is false. 5.7% of all adult men aged 16 to 74 in England and Wales have experienced sexual assault at least once since the age of 16. More information here.

Myth : Only gay men are raped and only gay men can rape men.

Fact : Anyone can be a victim of rape, sexual assault, sexual abuse or any other form of sexual violence, including men and boys of all sexual orientations. Rape is about power and control for perpetrators. So, for some perpetrators, it doesn’t matter what their victim’s gender or sexual orientation is.

Myth : Women cannot rape men.

Fact : The definition of rape is the act of non-consensual penile penetration. However, this does not mean that a female cannot sexually assault or abuse a male. It is still a very serious criminal offence.