SURVIVORS of sexual violence are being encouraged to make their voices heard as hundreds of adults, young people and children seek help from the region's support services across a six-month period.

Between April and October 2018, the Teesside Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) supported 338 clients in crisis after experiencing sexual violence.

Yesterday marked the start of the national Sexual Violence Awareness Week which aims to help more people have the confidence to seek the help they need.

Cleveland Police and Crime Commissioner Barry Coppinger and two specialist services he commissions are backing the campaign, urging survivors to come forward.

Mr Coppinger's office co-funds SARC and Cleveland-wide Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (ISVA) service.

An advisor is an individual who will support a survivor during every step of their journey, whether they report to the police or not.

The ISVA service, delivered by Arch North East, has received 348 referrals for adults, young people and children and offered 3,769 specialist counselling sessions since April 2018.

Mr Coppinger said: “I’m incredibly proud to fund two fantastic services that can provide a lifeline to victims of sexual violence, whether they choose to report the incident to the police or not.

“I am passionate about giving victims and survivors back the power that their abuser has taken away – by giving them options to use a service that is right for them.

“My new Police and Crime Plan further builds on the progress we have already made in Cleveland to tackle sexual violence and prevent further victimisation.”

Landmarks in Hartlepool, Redcar and Middlesbrough will be lit up green this week to raise awareness of the campaign.

Arch manager Nicky Harkin said: “This awareness week is a great platform to spread the message that specialist support is available following rape or sexual violence.

“Our team can help people with their long-term recovery, no matter when the incident took place, supporting them to make choices that are right for them and their future.

“Sexual Violence impacts everyone and we hope that people will stand with us this week in saying #ItsNotOk”

SARC manager Sue Smith said: “Sexual Violence Awareness Week provides an opportunity to highlight not just the scale of sexual offences, but also as the impact these crimes have upon the victims."

  • Teesside SARC can be contacted 24 hours a day by calling 03333-448283.
  • Alternatively, Arch North East can be contacted via 01642-822331.