Dorset Police news site

Victims of sexual offences are being urged to seek out help and support.

Dorset Police is supporting partners to raise awareness of the 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line as well as The Shores sexual assault referral centre (SARC).

Detective Superintendent Neil Wright, Force lead for Rape and Serious Sexual Offences (RASSO) and Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG), said: “We would always encourage all victims of sexual offences to feel confident reporting matters to police in the knowledge they will be listened to, treated with respect and the matter will be thoroughly investigated.

“However, we fully recognise there may be instances where people will not feel able to report directly to police and we want to highlight other agencies that are on hand provide invaluable support, expertise and advice.

“We are very familiar with the fantastic work these organisations do and would urge people to seek out their help and support if they have been unfortunate enough to have been the victim of a sexual offence.”

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said: “I understand that asking for help and support can be incredibly difficult for victims.

“I commission and provide funding for The Shores, STARS Dorset and Victim Support – all vital organisations delivering expert care and compassionate support to people in Dorset during their most vulnerable moments. Indeed, on a recent visit to The Shores, I saw first-hand the positive work they are doing and discussed how I can further support the quality offering currently being delivered.

“Ensuring victims of sexual offences have the help and respect they deserve is a key priority of my Police and Crime Plan. I am determined to ensure high quality services continue to be available and widely publicised so victims in Dorset know where to access support and be cared for and listened to.

“I urge anyone who is a victim of a sexual offence to seek help – there are people waiting to support you.”

The Ministry of Justice has been supporting Rape Crisis England & Wales to raise awareness of the free help available through the 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support line.

The service provides victims aged 16 and over with a free, confidential emotional support and listening service.

The Support Line is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to all survivors. It is accessible through phone and webchat, with additional online resources to help friends and family who are supporting survivors to rebuild their lives. 

Victims can call 0808 500 222 or visit www.247sexualabusesupport.org.uk to chat online or find out more.

We are also supporting the NHS in its campaign to raise awareness of sexual assault referral centres.

The Shores, Dorset’s SARC, is a 24/7 service that offers people of all ages and walks of life free, specialist care and support. Anyone who has been raped, sexually assaulted or abused at any time in their life can access the service.

To contact The Shores visit www.the-shores.org.uk or call 0800 970 9954.

Further support is also available from the charity STARS (Sexual Trauma and Recovery Service) at www.starsdorset.org or from Victim Support on 0300 3030 163.