A service provided by Blackpool Teaching Hospitals ensuring victims of sexual violence get the support they need has received a boost – after Home Office funding was confirmed for the next two years.
Nationally more than £8million of funding has been granted to frontline and specialist support projects for victims and survivors, including counselling, training and community outreach.
In total, 55 organisations will benefit from the funding, enabling them to continue their vital work with victims of abuse.
As part of this scheme, more than £200,000 has been granted to Blackpool Teaching Hospitals.
This will help ensure victims of sexual violence who present at hospital and wish to make a disclosure are offered timely and appropriate trauma-informed support.
It will also support hospital staff to identify possible victims, building on the success of the Independent Violence Advisor (IDVA) programme.
Hazel Gregory, head of Safeguarding at Blackpool Teaching Hospitals, said: “Significant work has taken place by the Trust to ensure that victims of sexual violence get appropriate support and this funding will allow the work to continue.
“We’re so pleased that the importance of the work has been recognised nationally and that we can continue to support those in need from our community.”
Sarah Dines, Minister for Safeguarding at the Home Office, said: “I have heard first-hand heart-breaking stories of trauma endured by survivors of abuse and I know how important bespoke support which meets victims’ individual needs and circumstances is.
“We are proud that this funding will go to such a diverse range of organisations who really make a difference to the communities they serve.”