Sheffield offers free support to male victims of sexual assault and abuse (9 May 2016)

Sheffield City Council is offering a new service to support men who are victims of sexual assault and abuse.

The service will offer free counselling and practical support to male victims of rape and sexual abuse, as part of Sheffield City Council’s new contract with the Sheffield Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre. Previously, men had to travel to Rotherham to access support and counselling.

Police figures show an increase in the number of sexual offences carried out against men, with seven assaults and five rapes carried out on men in Sheffield in 2015 –2016, compared with no recorded offences three years ago.

Director of Commissioning at Sheffield City Council, Joe Fowler, said:

“It’s vital that victims of sexual assault are able to get the help and support they need, both men and women.

“Traditionally, services have focused more on women victims – but more men are coming forward and it’s important that they are supported.

“Counselling is now available locally for both men and women.

“I’d urge anyone who has experienced sexual assault to get in touch, so they can access this.”

Sheffield Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre provide a free phone helpline, as well as Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (ISVA) support – and up to 20 free sessions of face-to-face counselling. The centre is a city-based charity, supported with funding from Sheffield City Council.

Manager of the Sheffield Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre, Meera Kulkarni, said:

“It can be incredibly difficult for people to come forward when they’ve suffered sexual assault or abuse – and victims often feel guilt or shame about what’s happened.

“We’re delighted we’re now able to see men as well as women – we know there’s a need for this in Sheffield.”

The council says that support for children who have been the victims of sexual assault and abuse will continue to be provided through Sheffield’s paediatric Sexual Assault Referral Centre, which provides access to counselling for both boys and girls as a specialist service in Sheffield.

Duncan Lewis Personal Injury Solicitors – No win no fee Sexual and Physical Abuse Claims

Duncan Lewis personal injury solicitors can advise victims of sexual or physical abuse on how to make a no win no fee claim for compensation.

Sexual and physical abuse claims can usually be made once a police investigation has been carried out and a conviction obtained against the perpetrator.

Claims can be made under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme – and/or through the civil courts.

Duncan Lewis also offers supportive legal advice to victims of historical sexual assault or physical abuse who wish to make a claim for compensation.

For expert legal advice on no win no fee Sexual and Physical Abuse Claims, call Duncan Lewis personal injury solicitors in confidence on 0333 772 0409.