A service which supports victims of sexual assault is marking its sixth anniversary.
Since it was set up in 2015, Bridgeway Sexual Assault Support Services has received over 1,490 referrals and carried out over 730 forensic examinations.
Prior to its launch, Cumbria did not have a dedicated referral centre for victims of sexual assault or rape.
It meant people had to travel outside the county for examinations.
As well as examinations, victims are supported by a crisis worker who offers emotional support and practical help to deal with the immediate impact of rape or sexual assault.
Its opening also saw the intorduction of a 24/7 helpline for those needing immediate support and referral onto therapeutic services or Independent Sexual Violence Advisors.
Advisors provide practical and emotional support for victims of sexual assault and sexual abuse, including support to understand the criminal justice system for those who have reported their case to the police.
Fifty-five per cent of the people who have use Bridgeway have been referred by the police.
Since the start of this year, 265 people have contacted Bridgeway and 140 people were offered an examination.
Out of those that used the service, 26 per cent were under 18 and 83 per cent of people who attended for an examination were referred to the ISVA for follow on care and support.
Around 60 per cent of all who accessed the SARC not for an examination were referred on to the therapeutic and counselling services.
The Bridgeway also refers people onto other services, as appropriate to their needs, like mental health teams and substance misuse services.
Police and crime commissioner Peter McCall said: “We take any report of rape or sexual assault seriously and our dedicated specialists and investigators deal with all reports sensitively and professionally, right here in Cumbria.
“I welcome the fact that more people have the confidence to come forward and be supported.
“However, during December the number of incidents of sexual assault, rape and violence rise significantly.
“For some people, Christmas can be the most dreaded part of the year. People do not have to suffer in silence and feel they have to cope alone.
“Crisis support and non-judgmental advice are available any time of the day or night via The Bridgeway’s free helpline, 0808 118 6432 and can be accessed directly, as well as through the police.”
Jess from Workington – people who suffer sexual assault or rape are granted automatic anonomity in the justice system – was a victim of rape and sexual assault.
She said: “I would encourage anyone that may be doubtful or unsure about contacting a SARC, to get in touch with them, as I know for me it made such a difference.
“At the time I was scared, but I’m so glad I did it, as it resulted in my attacker getting the time in prison he deserved.
“The staff at the SARC were amazing, so comforting and friendly, at a time I needed it most. They gave me all of the jabs and tests I needed to ensure that I would be ok and healthy in the future.
“They carried out forensic examinations and made a DVD of the injuries that I had sustained, which all could be used in court as evidence.
“This made a huge difference for when my case did go to court.
“The medical examiners also provided an in-depth report of their findings which again was used in my case and they also agreed to speak on my behalf.”
Donna Cardell, of The Bridgeway, added: “It is important to remember that we take referrals from anyone, as long as the person has consented.
“We will also assess and offer a forensic examination to anyone over 16 years of age who has suffered sexual violence and it is appropriate and within the forensic timescales to help gain any evidence, even if they are not ready to tell the police at that time.
“We will continue to provide this high standard of care as we go into the next year and beyond.”
Detective Chief Inspector Vicki Coombes said: “The Bridgeway continues to provide vital support and advice to victims of rape or sexual assault, regardless of when an offence occurred.
“Prior to the Bridgeway opening six years ago, victims who wished to access the services that a Sexual Assault Referral Centre provides, would have to travel outside of the county for this specialist care, so it really is an invaluable service which supports victims locally.
“If you have been the victim of rape or sexual assault, I would encourage you to report it to police, so that our specialist officers can help and support you in conjunction with the Bridgeway.
“It is also really important to note, that anyone wishing to self-refer to the Bridgeway, if you don’t feel able to contact the police, will be supported by them and any report will be dealt with.”
