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Govt announces new funding for sexual assault centres

07/10/2008

Home secretary Jacqui Smith has today announced new steps allowing every person in the country access to a sexual assault referral centre.

Ms Smith pledged an extra £1.6 million to help local authorities support victims of sexual assault and rape.

The government claims the sexual assault referral centres (SARCs) will provide victims with "immediate medical help, counselling, forensic examinations and the opportunity to give evidence anonymously on one site".

Ms Smith said that the new funding would go towards building ten new SARCs in the areas with the greatest need for the service.

The home secretary also announced an additional £100,000 to create a "team of experts" who will help target areas without the centres. The teams will include representatives from the police, forensic science service and an experienced SARC manager.

"There are few crimes more horrific than rape and I am determined to ensure that every victim has immediate access to the services and support they need," Ms Smith said.

"I want to see a sexual assault referral centre in every area and I urge areas to apply for this new £1.6 million funding.

"These centres not only improve the support we provide for victims but also encourage these crimes to be reported to the police. The expert medical advice available on site, and the forensic examinations are vital in bringing offenders to justice."

John Yates, Association of Chief Police Officers' (Acpo) lead for rape and serious sexual offences and Assistant Commissioner in the Metropolitan Police Service, added: "Acpo welcomes the announcement of the additional funding to support the establishment of sexual assault referral centres (SARCs) across the country.

"We have always said that these excellent facilities should be accessible to every victim of this terrible crime, no matter where they live. We know from experience and feedback what a dramatic difference they make both in terms of care and support for victims and in relation to giving investigators the best chance to build a successful case."

The Rape Crisis group said it also fully supported the move to make more centres available for those affected by sexual assault.