New support for sexual violence victims through advisory scheme

Victims of rape and sexual violence can now get more support through the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Independent Sexual Violence Advisory (ISVA) Service, irrespective of whether they have reported the crime to police.

The service provides support for anyone who has experienced rape or sexual abuse recently, or in the past. Victims can get help whether they have already reported an incident to the Police, or if they are just looking for advice and support on the options available to them.

In January, domestic abuse and sexual violence charity First Light were successful in the bid to provide the service for Swindon and Wiltshire following a competitive tender process. The six-year contract will commence next month.

Wiltshire Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson said: “Victims of sexual violence deserve the best possible support. Ensuring high quality services are available when people need them most is at the heart of what my office provides and a key priority within my police and crime plan.

“It’s vital that the support networks are in place for victims and our strategy has been to increase the availability and accessibility of these services across the county, especially for those who may feel uncertain or unable to contact to our criminal justice partners.

“We look forward to working with First Light to continue this work by providing support to all victims, irrespective of whether they have reported the crime to the police.”

Lyn Gooding, Chief Executive of First Light, said: “We are delighted First Light was selected as the ISVA service provider in Swindon and Wiltshire. As we already run the Swindon and Wiltshire Sexual Assault Referral Centre, this latest contract will help to provide a smooth transition for our clients as they move from one service to another.”

All referrals from professionals or people who wish to self-refer into the service can be made on First Light’s secure online referral portal.

Published Wednesday 29 March 2023