Project Sapphire

What is Sapphire?

Project Sapphire specialises in investigating rape and sexual assault cases and to provide victims with the support and care they need.

Each borough has a dedicated Sapphire team which has specially trained officers to investigate rape and look after victims, ensuring they are provided with the information they need including the details for any partner agencies and kept up to date with any developments.

Project Sapphire has helped to continually improve the services offered to victims and developed a corporate approach to tackling rape, which will be communicated to all staff.

What is rape?
A person commits rape if he intentionally penetrates the vagina, anus or mouth of another person with his penis, without their consent.

What is a serious sexual assault?
Assault by penetration - a person commits assault by penetration if he intentionally penetrates the vagina or anus of another person with a part of the body or anything else, without their consent.

What is sexual assault?
A person commits sexual assault if they intentionally touch another person, the touching is sexual and the person does not consent.

The attrition of rape allegations in London : A review

To view the Sexual Offences Act legislation please visit:

• www.opsi.gov.uk/ACTS/acts2003/20030042.htm