LVS offer specialist emotional support and practical help to anyone affected by sexual violence across the county. Independent Sexual Violence Advisers (ISVAs) are on hand to offer support and guidance, regardless of whether the crime has been reported to the police. ISVAs can also provide advice and practical help to ensure anyone affected is safe, support people through the criminal justice process and offer support at any related appointments.
Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw, who funds LVS said: “It is so important for people to know that services are open and ready to support them. We know that sexual violence has a long lasting impact on those affected and the support available can make a real difference to people’s recovery.
“The pandemic can feel isolating but Lancashire Victim Services’ phones lines and online chat remain open and ready to help anyone in need of support.”
Alexandra Gornall, Operations Manager at LVS added: “Sexual violence is a terrible crime and one that can be really hard for people to talk about.
“We are here to talk to people or to chat with them online but we can also provide access to a range of self-help resources for anyone that doesn’t quite feel ready to talk about what has happened.
“Over the past year we have been able to strengthen our specialist team and we now have Child ISVAs who specialise in supporting children and young people who have experienced abuse.
“Our message is simple, we are here and ready to support you, please don’t suffer in silence. We will work with you to find the best way forward together.”
All of Lancashire Victim Services’ support is free and confidential. Anyone in need of support can get in touch by calling 0300 323 0085, by using the online chat at www.lancashirevictimservices.org or by emailing info@lancashirevictimservices.org.
