19/09/2008

'Safe Island' For Sexual Assault Victims Opens

A one-stop location where victims of sexual assault can receive medical care and counselling whilst assisting a police investigation was opened today in Cardiff by First Minister Rhodri Morgan and Home Office Minister Vernon Coaker.

The Safe Island Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) is the twentieth SARC set up throughout England and Wales. By 2011, there will be at least 38 SARCs in existence across the country.

SARCs are a joint venture between police forces, health providers, the voluntary sector and the criminal justice system. They enhance the investigation and prosecution of sexual violence cases whilst allowing health providers and support workers access to victims quickly in a sympathetic environment.

First Minister for Wales, Rhodri Morgan said: "Safe Island will provide a new level of support for victims of sexual violence. This centre will allow people to be treated for the devastating effects of sexual violence in a secure environment and in one place. I congratulate everyone involved in setting up the project. I am confident that the project goes from strength to strength."

Under Secretary of State in the Home Office, Vernon Coaker, also said: "Sexual assault is a horrific crime. Such offences deeply affect the lives of victims and their families, and cause fear in our communities.

"That is why, earlier this year, in the Tackling Violence Action Plan, the Government made a commitment to double the number of SARCs to ensure they cover every part of England and Wales.

"I am delighted that we have been able to support the development of Safe Island and would like to thank everyone involved for the hard work, dedication and commitment that has led up to today."

(JM)

Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

17 September 2009
Booze Blamed For Unsafe Sex
Alcohol can and does influence sexual decision making, according to new research published today by sexual health charity the Family Planning Association (fpa).
03 April 2009
Domestic Violence Board Expands To Include Sexual Attacks
The MPA Domestic Violence Board is formally expanding its remit and oversight responsibilities to include sexual violence and will re-launch as the Domestic and Sexual Violence Board today. Cindy Butts, MPA member and Chair of the Board said: "This is an exciting and challenging step forward.
09 March 2009
More Help Given To Victims Of Sexual Violence
More funding to help improve the emergency centres that help victims of sexual assault, was announced by Health Minister Ann Keen today. The National Support Team on Response to Sexual Violence will receive a £1.
10 June 2014
Global Summit To End Sexual Violence In Conflict Begins
The Foreign Secretary William Hague and Special Envoy of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees Angelina Jolie opened the Global Summit to End Sexual Violence in Conflict today. The Summit will welcome governments from over 100 countries, over 900 experts, NGOs, Faith leaders, and representatives from international organisations across the world.
06 August 2009
£3m Fund To Help Sexual Abuse Victims
The government has awarded more than £3 million to support victims of rape and sexual violence. Rape Crisis Centres will benefit from £1.6 million from the Government's Equalities Office's (GEO) Special Fund, which is supported by the Home Office and Department for Health.