YOU will be listented to.

That is one of the key messages from staff at Cumbria's Bridgeway Sexual Assault Referral Centre, (SARC) says its manager Donna Cardell.

“At The Bridgeway, we are pleased to be supporting the Cumbria Constabulary campaign this month," she told the News & Star. 

“Rape and sexual assault and domestic violence so often go hand-in-hand and the victims often find it difficult to report or sometimes don’t even realise that what they are experiencing is sexual abuse.

“Anyone who has experienced rape or sexual assault can attend The Bridgeway whether they have reported to the police or not.

“If you feel that you are not ready to report to the police or don’t want to report, please still get in touch.”

Rebecca Williams, sexual violence communications and engagement lead for the North West, said: ”Sexualviolencesupport.co.uk is an online directory of specialist sexual violence support services. You can find your local support service by entering your postcode into the search function on the website.

"It’s important to remember that no matter when it happened, you will be listened to. It is never your fault.”

Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner Peter McCall said sex crimes have a devastating effects on people's life. "This can be made worse when the perpetrator is someone who was trusted, such as a romantic partner or family member," he said.

“The message needs to be very clear: sexual contact without explicit consent is illegal.

“Sexual activity is not a right in any relationship and just because someone agrees to sex or sexual activity once does not mean they have given lifetime consent – each interaction needs consent. I would always urge anyone who has been raped or sexually assaulted to report it to the police.

“Your report will be taken seriously. I understand that this isn’t an option for everyone, which is why I commission services in Cumbria to help.

“The Bridgeway is an organisation for all of Cumbria, based in Penrith, and offers emotional and practical support, emergency contraception and access to screening and treatment for sexually transmitted infections.

“They offer medical examination and collection of forensic evidence, refer onto counselling and/or other support services, and can help make a report to the police, if that’s what the service user wants.

“Their helpline 0808 118 6432 can be used 24/7 or email on info@bridgeway.org.uk with all other services by appointment.

“Victim Support can also provide information, advice and signposting to appropriate services based on the wants and needs of the service user.

“Victim Support are also available for advice and signposting to appropriate services and can be contacted   Mon – Fri, 9am-6pm on 0300 303 0157, or 24/7 helpline 0808 1689 111. For those that are unable to speak on the phone Victim Support also has a 24/7 online chat on their website, victimsupport.org.uk.

“Please reach out for support – you are not alone.”