As a part of Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week, PCC John Campion reaffirms his dedication to protecting victims of sexual offences across West Mercia.
The PCC has allocated in excess of £200k in funding to sexual assault referral centres (SARCs), such as The Glade, in West Mercia over the last financial year. SARCs support all victims of sexual assault and rape, which includes recent and non-recent. The funding also includes over £130k which is allocated to West Midlands Children’s and Young Person’s Service (CYPS). This service is available to victims aged 17 years and under who have experienced sexual violence or sexual abuse.
SARCs are a safe place for people to start their journey through the process post incident, they offer support and explain all the options available to the individual. The service is private and confidential and open 24/7. Those who use the SARC don’t need to have reported the crime to police, self-referrals are encouraged and will be supported along the journey as far as they want to continue with the process.
PCC John Campion said: “I am committed to putting victims and survivors at the heart of policing, their protection and the security to support them is a priority and why I find it a key priority to fund the SARCs.
“I acknowledge hot hard it must be as a victim to find the confidence to come forward following a sexual assault or sexual violence, support is available when you are ready and SARCs are available for you to hear your options and be supported through the process. The Glade offers an excellent service to our communities of Herefordshire, Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin and Worcestershire. I am committed to ensuring the right help is available which is why I have further funded the CYPS in the West Midlands so that all victims of these awful crimes can seek the help and support they so rightfully deserve.”