A CENTRE dedicated to helping victims of sexual assault in County Durham has been officially opened.

Durham Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen was joined by Chief Constable of Durham Constabulary Jo Farrell, NHS England and local authority representatives for the opening of The Meadows Sexual Assault Referral Centre.

The event was opened virtually by The Victims’ Commissioner for England and Wales, Dame Vera Baird QC, who addressed those involved in the development of the facility.

It was re-located in March 2020 to increase the accessibility of the centre to deliver high quality, tailored support for those affected by rape and sexual violence.

Dame Vera Baird said: “This new SARC facility here in County Durham is essential for victims across the area.

“The centre has all the facilities required to offer victims of rape and sexual assault the best possible support and a gold standard of care and we need to see more of these centres across the country.”

The facility has been developed as a safe place for survivors of rape and sexual assault for residents across County Durham and Darlington to disclose and seek advice.

Services that are offered include a forensic medical examination, advice, support, counselling, and sexual health screening.

Staff aim to provide help as soon as you feel ready, whether you wish to report the assault to the police or not.

The service is free and available to both females and males.

Chief Constable Jo Farrell said: “Rape and sexual violence are some of the most harmful and harrowing crimes that we as police officers investigate. They devastate lives and are completely deplorable.

“It takes a huge amount of courage to come forward and seek help after being raped or sexually assaulted, which is why we are committed to providing the very best care and support to help victims and survivors to rebuild their lives and begin the recovery process.

“From the moment they step foot inside The Meadows Sexual Assault Referral Centre, to the moment they leave and beyond, victims and survivors are listened to, protected, treated with respect, and given the best possible care and ongoing support.”

Durham Constabulary has a good record of seeking and achieving justice for victims of sexual assault but continues to seek improvement by working with partners to ensure the best possible coordination of services to victims, that optimises their chances of successful prosecution.

Durham Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen said: “I am committed to putting victims first and improving the experience of victims and witnesses.

“This new facility will ensure that support practical and emotional is available to victims to help them recover.

“By relocating, services will be more accessible and provide even more support to victims of rape and sexual assault.”

Victims of sexual violence can call 03333-448-283 or visit: themeadowsdurham.org.uk/