Earlsdon Ward Councillor Allan Andrews visited the Coventry Rape and Sexual Abuse Clinic on March 1 to learn more about the important services it provides to victims of sexual violence and abuse.
CRASAC has existed since 1981 and provides a confidential support and counselling service run for women and girls who have been raped, sexually abused or assaulted. Due to only having one location, they are currently unable to offer a counselling service for men but men and boys are supported by CRASAC advocates, also in confidence.
The team provides support for survivors who have experienced any kind of sexual abuse of any kind at any time in their life. The counselling service is available to women and girls aged 11 years and over and their helpline and ISVA (Independent Sexual Violence Advisors) services are also available to men and boys aged 11 years and over.
Commenting on the visit, Allan said: “I was pleased to spend time with CRASAC as I had heard of the very important services they offer to people who have experienced any form of sexual abuse.
“The discussions I had improved my understanding of the type of work they carry out and I cannot speak more highly of the dedication of those who work there. The help they provide to both women and men to come to terms with the heinous crimes that have been committed against them is extremely valuable. CRASAC offers a variety of services, including one-to-one and group counselling, a telephone advice service and a valuable signposting service.”
Dianne Whitfield, CRASAC Centre Manager said: “It was a pleasure to show Allan round our centre and for our incredibly committed staff to get such a resounding acknowledgement of the work they do for some of the most vulnerable people in Coventry.
“It is essential that decision-makers like Allan understand the need for our services which last year supported around 3,500 women, men and children from Coventry who have been victims of rape or sexual abuse.”