VICTIMS of sexual abuse are being encouraged to seek support.
Victims First, managed by the Office of the Police and crime commissioner for the Thames Valley, is working with Thames Valley Police to reassure people they can come forward and seek support.
Some rape crisis centres across the region have seen a decrease in people looking for support due to fear of not complying with Covid-19 restrictions.
Detective superintendent Rebecca Mears, head of protecting vulnerable people at Thames Valley Police, said: “Our priority first and foremost is to protect people. Whatever the circumstances surrounding a sexual assault taking place, we urge victims to come forward and seek the necessary support and, if possible, report the offence to us so that we can take action to protect others. Please do not be concerned.”
Eddie Fitzpatrick, manager of a Victims First hub, said she recognised the difficulty in coming forward, but wants to reassure people of the available help.
“If you’ve experienced rape or sexual assault, we will support you, regardless of when or where the incident happened, or whether or not you’ve chosen to report it to the police,” she said. “Please contact us and one of our Victims First Officers will work with you to get the support you need.”
For more information, or to seek support visit: www.victims-first.org.uk or call 0300 1234 148
