A CAMPAIGN aimed at encouraging victims of sexual abuse in Cheshire to come forward and seek help has been launched.
Cheshire Sexual Assault Services have unveiled a striking poster campaign and website aimed at giving victims of rape or sexual assault all the details they need to receive support.
The website contains information on the range of services available in Cheshire and how to access them.
It also contains contact information for Cheshire Sexual Assault Referral Centre's (SARC) 24-hour phone line, part of St Mary’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre in Manchester.
St Mary’s provides medical assistance for Cheshire Sexual Assault Services.
Bernie Ryan, centre manager of St Mary’s Centre, said: “Often people who experience sexual violence find they are in trauma and can be confused about what they want to do.
“We want to encourage people to access our medical services so they can be assured that all their healthcare needs have been addressed.
“We can also store samples for up to seven years, so they can decide to make a report to the police when they are ready.”
The Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre (RASASC) provides support for victims of sexual abuse in Cheshire, Merseyside and the surrounding area for Cheshire Sexual Assault Services.
The service is open to women, men and children of all ages, and includes aftercare support, help through the criminal justice system, ongoing health and social support and specialist counselling.
Julie Evans chief executive of RASASC, said: “It is important that people understand they can access all of our services without having to speak to the police.
“They can receive a medical examination and address any health concerns at the St Mary’s Centre and then obtain emotional and psychological support from their local RASASC service.”
Counselling and support is available at Cheshire Sexual Assault Services offices throughout Cheshire, including Northwich, Crewe, Chester, Ellesmere Port, Warrington, Runcorn and Macclesfield.
The campaign was officially launched on Friday, June 24 at Congleton Town Hall by Cheshire Sexual Assault Services.
To view the new website visit cheshiresarc.org.uk
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