PRESS RELEASE 23/07/2019 First Light are pleased to announce the expansion of their sexual violence counselling provision in Plymouth to include victims of historic sexual abuse. The charity is asking people in Plymouth to get in touch if they have been affected by sexual violence to see if the therapy service is appropriate for [...]
Victims of sexual violence are now able again to access to specialist Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) in Devon and Cornwall, without having to report the crime first. The Cove (Plymouth) and The Willow Centre (Cornwall) are expecting a sharp increase in victims and survivors coming forward for medical and emotional support. Tom Dingwall, Chief Executive [...]
4 December 2016 Victims of sexual assault and abuse in Devon and Cornwall, including children and young people will be helped by extra funding from NHS England. The team of the Police and Crime Commissioner, Alison Hernandez worked closely with NHS England to secure more than £150,000. This additional funding will enhance the services already [...]
A crisis worker is a highly trained, yet compassionate and empathetic professional, who is skilled at supporting people at a time of trauma and personal crisis. All of our crisis workers are female and have been selected on the basis of their integrity and openness. They know how important it is for your voice to [...]
We have specialist advisors for children who have significant experience of supporting young people and their families through the criminal justice system. Children and Young People are entitled to a range of special measures to help them give evidence in court - these can be explained to you by your dedicated advisor. We can help [...]
The strength and bravery it takes to tell someone about your abuse is undeniable – The courage it takes to seek justice is simply immeasurable. Too many abusers rely on the silence and fear of their victims to shield them from justice. They underestimate your power and strength. The Government is committed to combating sexual [...]
What Happens at the Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC)? First Light has two SARC's – The Cove in Plymouth and the Willow Centre in Truro. 1. How long will an examination last? 2. Who will be present at the examination? 3. Can a friend or family member come in with me? 4. Does the examination hurt? [...]
Q: How long is each appointment? A: On average, an hour is set aside for each appointment, although on some occasions we recognise that you may require more time and this is accommodated. Q: Do you provide an outreach service? Yes, if you are unable to travel to us due to illness, disabilities or age, [...]
Q: Are you a Rape Crisis Centre? A: No. We are not affiliated to Rape Crisis. We have our own operational policies and ethos. Although we provide some support in much the same way, we only employ fully qualified professionals to support you. Unless you decide to join a support group of other survivors, you [...]
We have specialist advisors for children who have significant experience of supporting young people and their families through the criminal justice system. Children and Young People are entitled to a range of special measures to help them give evidence in court - these can be explained to you by your dedicated advisor. We can help [...]
