£120,000 to provide new rape centre

A SUPPORT service for victims of sexual violence has been given £120,000 by the Government to help provide a new rape centre in Leeds.
By Rob Preece Crime Correspondent
Published 15th Mar 2012, 06:00 BST

Support After Rape and Sexual Violence Leeds (SARSVL), which helps women and girls who have been affected by sexual violence at any time in their lives, currently runs its confidential helpline from a borrowed room.

But the three-year grant from the Ministry of Justice will allow the service to employ staff and secure a permanent base.

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SARSVL, which was set up by volunteers, will be able to extend the helpline’s hours, as well as providing face-to-face support, advocacy and communicating with younger women and girls via text and email. Katie Russell, of SARSVL, said: “We will be able to carry out our ambitious plans to increase our services.

“The grant will also support our continuing efforts to raise awareness and understanding of sexual violence.”

The helpline – 0113 202 1844 – is open from 6pm to 8pm on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

Related topics:GovernmentLeeds