Our community needs to tackle the rise in sexual violence against younger women

Earlier this year, a young woman came to Jewish Women’s Aid (JWA) after experiencing sexual violence. She was traumatised and struggling to navigate the complex legal and emotional aftermath of her assault. Should she call the police, go to a sexual health clinic, confide in loved ones? The questions were endless – and came at a time when she was at her most vulnerable.

And so she called JWA. With the support of JWA’s independent sexual violence advocate (ISVA), she was able to access specialist counselling, obtain informed legal guidance and begin the long journey to recovery. Sadly, her case is not a one-off.

Over the past year, JWA has seen a 64 per cent increase in the number of Jewish women and girls affected by sexual violence who have come to us for support. Beyond that, our latest figures – released this week to mark Sexual Assault Awareness Month – show that younger Jewish women make up the majority of those we support through our sexual violence support service – with more than 60 per cent aged 26 to 35 and nearly 30 per cent aged 16 to 25. And 25 per cent of sexual violence victims supported by JWA also experience domestic abuse. These staggering statistics highlight a crisis that we – as a community – cannot ignore.

At JWA we are committed to supporting victims of sexual violence and domestic abuse. We provide a comprehensive support package that includes trauma-informed counselling, legal advocacy and practical guidance. Our ISVAs accompany clients to rape crisis centres, sexual health clinics, police interviews, and, if the client chooses to pursue legal action, court proceedings.

Right now, 15 women and girls affected by sexual violence are being supported through the criminal justice system by JWA. And we know that there are many more who need our support.

We know that intervention and education are key to preventing rising cases of sexual violence. Through JWA’s programmes on healthy relationships and consent, we are reaching young people in schools, universities, youth movements and community spaces.

For instance, JWA’s University Ambassadors Programme empowers students to stand up against sexual violence and promote healthy relationships. Through peer-led training, we’re building a culture of consent and respect on campus, especially at a time when many are forming new relationships for the first time.

And we know that we have the backing of the community – across all parts of it. I was recently at a JWA training session for rabbis and rebbetzins focused on domestic abuse when I was asked about how to support someone affected by sexual violence. Having the support and understanding of this serious issue among community leaders is so important when it comes to both supporting victims and questioning perceptions that allow perpetrators to go unchallenged.

That’s why JWA is working hard, partnering with synagogues and institutions, to strengthen culturally relevant training and resources for clergy, youth leaders, mikveh attendants, and bride and groom teachers, as well as frontline professionals, such as police and social workers. This work isn’t just about ensuring survivors are supported by trusted figures – though that remains vital – it is about fostering a community that is informed and ready to face these difficult issues.

And these initiatives are already making a difference. Women are reaching out for support, a sign that awareness is growing and that professionals, from medical professionals to police officers, are better equipped to respond and refer to JWA.

But there is more to do. Real, lasting change requires the collective commitment of the entire Jewish community. We need more schools and synagogues to engage with our specialist training and take an active role in preventing harm and in building a community where women and girls feel safe and supported.

​If you or someone you know has been affected by domestic abuse or sexual violence, Jewish Women’s Aid offers confidential support and guidance. Helpline: 0808 801 0500; Email: advice@jwa.org.uk; Website: jwa.org.uk or click here

​Sam Clifford is CEO of Jewish Women’s Aid