A charity which helps victims of rape, sexual abuse and domestic violence has celebrated its 25th anniversary.
And it is still proving a vital service to many hundreds of people every month.
The Kirklees Rape and Sexual Abuse Counselling Centre, based in Huddersfield town centre, was set up in 1989.
It offers professional counselling for both men and women and receives up to 18,000 calls a year.
The service runs five days a week and has eight part-time staff and eight volunteer helpline workers.
One of the centre’s founders, Kosa Sultana, returned for the anniversary event at Brian Jackson House in Huddersfield.
Also speaking at the event was Huddersfield Labour MP Barry Sheerman, Dr Michelle Bartholomew, of the School of Human and Health Sciences at Huddersfield University, and service director Davida Lumsden.
Entertainment was provided by poet Yasmin Allen and singer Angela Roach.
The event was attended by representatives from health and social services, the police, business community and survivors of abuse.
In November 2013 there were 2,969 cases of sexual abuse reported to West Yorkshire Police.
However it is estimated that 85% of victims do not report abuse.
The service is available to men and women over 16 and the helpline is open from 9am-5pm Monday to Thursday and Fridays from 9am-7.30pm. There is an outreach service once a week at Dewsbury Health Centre.
The helpline number is 01484 450040.
