Victims of rape and sexual assault in West Yorkshire are to get improved care and support.
A new region-wide service has been put in place by NHS England and the Police and Crime Commissioner, Mark Burns-Williamson.
Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCS) give victims a more comfortable environment in which to undergo a forensic examination, receive counselling and be advised on and supported in the process of pressing charges.
For the first time a single service has been put in place across Yorkshire and the Humber which will allow those treating victims to be able to better share their knowledge and expertise to the benefit of the service and those using it.
Chris Jewesbury, Head of Health and Justice Commissioning for NHS England – North (Yorkshire and the Humber), said: “It is vital that we ensure victims of sexual assault get the right help and support in an environment which puts them at ease.”
READ MORE:
READ MORE:
For the first time all victims will receive a consistent service, each will have access to a Crisis Worker who can offer help and guidance from the moment the assault is reported until the conclusion of any legal process.
There will be four centres around the region delivering this vital service which will be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Victims will also be able to self-refer by going to the any one of the centres or by using a single telephone number, which will be made public in the near future.
Mr Burns-Williamson, said: “It is a priority in my Police and Crime Plan to improve outcomes for the very vulnerable group of victims and survivors who experience this particularly serious crime.
“The establishment of a dedicated SARC in West Yorkshire earlier this year was long overdue and a real milestone.”
