Tuesday 03 October 2023
Following the recent launch of the Sexual Assault Referral Centre's helpline, islanders are being reminded of the support available.
The helpline is available 24/7 and staffed by trained Crisis Workers. Although they have the word Crisis in their job titles, these compassionate and caring individuals are there to support anyone who has experienced something of a sexual nature that they did not want to happen.
Islanders can call the helpline for information about the options available to them, advice on support services and referrals into the SARC. Calls will be welcome from anyone who has experienced sexual assault or abuse, whether it was a long time ago or very recently.
If you need support, please call 01481 227700.
On 1st January 2024, the SARC will start its forensic examination service, meaning survivors and victims will be attend the centre for an evidential examination as an alternative to going straight to the police.
The opening of a Sexual Assault Referral Centre in Guernsey has been a key priority for the Committee for Home Affairs this term, and it is also a priority under the Government Workplan.
Charlie Cox, Sexual Assault Referral Centre Manager, said:
'As we enter the first week of the Sexual Assault Helpline we want to remind islanders of the support available. The helpline is available for everyone.
'Anyone can phone the helpline to find out more about the support and options available if they've experienced a sexual assault. We know that it can be really difficult to talk about sexual assault and that it is hard to process what has happened to you. The public can speak to a trained member of the team whether their experience was recent or a long time ago. There is no pressure to do anything following the call and our team will be guided by what is best for the person calling.
We would like to encourage anyone to call and to be reassured that they only need to share information they want with us.'
