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OF YOUNG WOMEN AGED 18-24 REPORT HAVING EXPERIENCED SEXUAL ABUSE IN CHILDHOOD

Independent Sexual Violence Advisors

The service offers

• Independent Sexual Violence Advisors

• Dedicated Young Persons ISVA

• Children’s ISVA

• BME ISVA

We have nine Independent Sexual Violence Advisors, all trained in line with Home Office Guidance. Five for adults and three for children and young people and one peer support worker all who offer confidential advice and practical and emotional support including a safe place to talk, access to counselling, support attending Sexual Health Services and help with medical attention. They provide support for anyone (women, men, children) who has been the victim of rape and sexual abuse across the whole of Avon and Somerset area. They also can help with supporting the family and practical problems such as help with housing, benefits, and employers.

If the victim wants to report to the police they can give support with making a statement, assist with claims for compensation and give support before, during and after the court process. The victim does not have to report to the police to access the service and the rape or sexual assault can have happened recently or in the past.

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"