Improved support for survivors of rape and sexual abuse

Survivors of sexual abuse and rape will now be provided with improved support that better meets their needs across the region.

Following a competitive tender exercise undertaken, a new sexual abuse support model has been launched to provide a joined-up approach for survivors. The launch coincides with Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week. 

The new model will strengthen local leadership, coordination and oversight, ensuring clearer pathways for those who need help and a more joined up, trauma-informed approach for survivors. 

A former service user and now ambassador of Devon Rape Crisis and Sexual Abuse Services has welcomed the new support model having had to wait nearly two years to receive therapy after making a referral in 2022. 

She recalled: “It was a massive step to ask for help, especially around sexual violence as there is so much stigma and shame. You build yourself up ready to speak about it and then you have to carry on as normal while you wait. My mental health suffered trying to cope with it but when I did get support it was fantastic. 

“Waits have thankfully now improved. The new model sounds really good because survivors will be able to get support quicker and it recognises some people need different things.” 

Explaining the benefits it will bring, Bethan Ridge, specialist support team leader for Devon Rape Crisis and Sexual Abuse Services, said: “My team are so looking forward to working more collaboratively with our new partners who are coming on board through this contract. It feels we now have a more rounded partnership which will further deepen survivor choice, as well as support our resilience, enable us to share best practice, and work in solidarity with like-minded charities who all want the best for survivors of rape and sexual abuse in Devon”. 

The following councils and organisations will act as lead service providers in their areas, coordinating delivery and working closely with partners across the system to provide easier access to therapy and support for both adults and children:  

Devon and Torbay 

The Children’s Society and Devon Rape Crisis and Sexual Abuse Services are partnering with Intercom Trust, Co-Lab and What’s Your Problem. 

The total investment across the five years of the contract is £6.7million with the majority of the funding coming from the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC). 

Torbay Council, Plymouth City Council, Cornwall Council and Devon County Council are also each contributing funding for support services in their area, with overarching support from NHS England.  

A key role of the OPCC is providing services for victims to help them cope and recover. Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez said: “A crucial priority of mine has been to make sure every victim of sexual abuse receives the right free support from the services my office invests in. 

“In Devon and Cornwall, we have seen a concerning rise in recorded sexual offences over the years. Since 2010, the number of these crimes has more than tripled.  This investment will ensure the help victims need is available.” 

The Commissioner recently visited Phoenix Rising, a support service based in Torquay for survivors of domestic and sexual abuse. The non-profit organisation says having whole wrap around services are what victims need. 

Claire Knight, CEO of Phoenix Rising, said: “There is a gap and a need for a contract like this and we are hoping to work with those services to bring that support.” 

To access victim support online funded by the OPCC, including Devon & Cornwall Police Victim Care Unit, please visit the Victim Care website at https://victimcare-dc.org/   

Victims of rape and serious sexual offences in Devon and Cornwall can find out what happens when such crimes are reported to the police and the support available throughout the process through a video created by the OPCC as part of its wider Criminal Justice and You online resource. Please visit https://victimcare-dc.org/your-journey-through-the-criminal-justice-system/