News / police
New campaign launched to support survivors of sexual assault
The police and crime commissioner of Avon & Somerset Police is funding a new campaign that will raise awareness of support available to sexual assault survivors in Bristol.
The campaign, called “We’re Here”, launched on Monday and highlights support available through targeted in-person and digital outreach.
“We’re Here” is supported by Bristol City Council, the University of Bristol, Bristol Students’ Union, the University of West England (UWE) and UWE Students’ Union as well as three of Bristol’s biggest sexual assault support services: The Bridge, Safe Link and Somerset and Avon Rape and Sexual Abuse Support (SARSAS).
is needed now More than ever
Clare Moody, police and crime commissioner, said: “One of my key priorities is ensuring that victim-survivors have access to high-quality, expert support and resources.
“Survivors may need help at different times and in different ways, and I want them to know they do not have to face this alone.
“Preventing these crimes by addressing perpetrator behaviour is essential, but while we work to reduce and prevent this harm, I will never lose sight of the victim-survivors who have already been affected.
“Bristol has a strong and trusted network of trauma-informed care, and this campaign will ensure that more people are aware of these services and how to access them.”
The We’re Here campaign highlights support available to sexual assault survivors – photo: The Bridge
The Bridge is a Sexual Assault Referral Centre which offers medical care and psychological support to anyone who has been sexually assaulted.
Nicola Shannon, service manager at The Bridge, said: “At the Bridge, we see first-hand the courage it takes for survivors of sexual assault to seek help, and we are proud to be part of this campaign to ensure they know support is always available.
“Our team provides expert, trauma-informed care, including medical and forensic services, alongside a safe and compassionate space where survivors can begin their recovery.
“This campaign is a crucial step in raising awareness and helping people take their first steps towards healing, whether or not they choose to involve the police.”
According to national charity Rape Crisis, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 18 men in England and Wales, who are 16 or older, have been raped or sexually assaulted.
From 2022 to 2023, Avon & Somerset Police recorded 191,186 sexual offences. This was a 3 per cent decrease from the year before.
Main photo: Avon & Somerset Police
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