WE CAN PROVIDE
A SAFE SPACE TO TALK,
EMOTIONAL SUPPORT,
HELP TO COMMUNICATE
WITH SCHOOL, COLLEGE
OR OTHER PROFESSIONALS

Services for children and young people

We have 3 Children and Young Person’s Sexual Violence Advisors (CYPSVAs) who work with and support anyone under the age of 18.

Our CYPSVAs are trained in line with Home Office guidance,  and can work directly with the child or young person as well as provide support to the family. They can meet with the child or young person wherever they feel most comfortable, which could be at home, school, a café or outdoor area. They can provide a safe space to talk, emotional support, help to communicate with school, college or other professionals.

The CYPSVAs help their clients feel safe and supported through the police process and beyond. They understand how scary or confusing it can be and do their best to help the young person understand what is happening, helping them to ask questions and talk to the police if needed.

Our CYPSVAs also refer into other services such as support groups, counselling,  creative groups, substance abuse services and many more – depending on what the child or young person needs and wants. We also signpost families to other specialist services and helplines.

Our CYPSVAs support the child or young person throughout the court process, helping them feel safe and understand what is happening. We also understand that the end of the court case can be difficult and where the child or young person would like this, we provide some support after all criminal justice proceedings have finished.

Quotes from police

"I cannot speak highly enough of ALL the ISVA’s"
"Every ISVA is passionate and motivated and are highly professional."
"In short a pleasure to work with and we look forward to working many more years together"
"The ISVAS are so valuable and assist in so many ways"
"9 times out of 10 when a victim is worried about a police investigation they say that they feel stronger knowing that they have someone independent to explain things."
"I feel a lot of victims would not stay on board if the ISVAS were not about and often victims are still scared to speak to police officers ."

SAFE Link service users feedback

"this is just what I have been looking for"
"it’s such a relief to know I am not the only one feeling this way"
"being part of the group helps my confidence, helps me to look on the positive side and have understanding support"