In light of the recent increase in coverage on sexual abuse – highlighted through abuse of young footballers, in schools, and coverage of the Sarah Everard case – The Rape & Sexual Abuse Support Centre (RASASC) can offer help and support to anyone aged over 13 in Surrey who has been affected by rape or sexual abuse.

RASASC work across Surrey, supporting both male and female survivors of rape and sexual abuse, whether recent or non-recent, through a counselling service, a national helpline and a team of seven Independent Sexual Violence Advisors.

Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (or ISVAs), support survivors through practical and emotional advice, to help them make informed choices. ISVAs can offer support such as: providing information on the legal process, making GP appointments, attending court, liaising with the police and other services and discussing and explaining available options.

A counselling service is available for young people aged 13 – 17, as well as a family counselling service, to enable family and friends to learn how to best support the survivor and begin to understand and process their own feelings.

Our free, confidential helpline operates four evenings a week, from Monday – Thursday (excluding bank holidays) from 7.30pm – 9.30pm, on 01483 546400. Specially trained advisors can offer support and advice, signpost to services, or just listen if the caller needs someone to talk to.

RASASC Chief Executive Officer, Lesley Devonport said:

“We can offer support to survivors in a number of ways, helping them to make informed choices, in order to begin regaining control over their lives.

“Recently, we have seen a huge increase in coverage around sexual abuse, and we know this will have been very traumatic for survivors, whether they have previously sought help or not. I would urge survivors to reach out to support services if they are able to, we are here for you, and we believe you.”

All RASASC services are non-judgemental, and survivors are very much in control of all decisions involving how they would like to proceed with their individual case. In the case of a referral from a young person (aged between 13-17 years), we do have a duty of care to notify Children’s Services that we are supporting that individual with a sexual abuse allegation.

For more information on all of our services and how to get in touch, visit our Get support page on our website.

You can also follow us on Facebook at: RASASC Guildford or Twitter: @HelpRASASC.