Don’t be deterred: We are here for you

We are aware that there has been a lot of reporting in the media recently on conviction rates for sexual violence. This is something that we feel extremely strongly about as an organisation, and we stand with Rape Crisis England & Wales and their sister services in calling on the Government to act. 

We know that it might feel daunting to report your experiences in the light of local and national conviction rates. You might be concerned that you will not be believed. 

We are here to say: we will believe you. We are here to support you. 

We are an independent service – not part of the police, not part of social services, but a stand-alone charity whose focus is YOU and your wellbeing. 

If you feel like reporting to the Police is the right journey for you – and that is a choice that many survivors make – we are here to take that step with you. Our ISVA team are ready to support you in speaking to the Police, making a report, and every step that happens afterwards – including if you change your mind about engaging with the criminal justice system. You are our priority, and we are here to explain, guide and support you. 

If you don’t want to report to the Police, we are here for you on that journey too. Our qualified volunteers are ready at the other end of the phone for our twice-weekly Helpline. Our specialist therapists are here to provide counselling sessions. Our Groupwork Facilitator is here to run supportive spaces.  

Wherever you are at in your survivor journey, know that you do not have to do it alone. Know that we are fighting alongside you for your right to be heard and to define what justice looks like to you. Know that we are here to listen, to support, and most crucially: to believe. 

This country has a long way to go to support survivors, and to eradicate sexual violence – but we aren’t going to wait around for change to be there for you. We’re here now. We believe you. You are not alone.