The budget that was given previously was very very minimal and will be cut in March 2015. I want the government to fund more permanent and full time ISVA's as currently only third sector organisations are self funding them.
The role of an ISVA is an Independent Sexual Violence Advisor - meaning that anyone of any age or gender can approach an ISVA for guidance and support as a first port of call. Generally an ISVA would support a client for however long they need and through the court process if a victim wishes to do so.
It makes total sense and benefit for the CPS, Met police and society at a whole if victims are properly supported from day one. Without this support can we really ask victims to report such horrific crimes and go through an often protracted and weighty court procedure? It is paramount they all have the right to professional support in order deal with what has happened and go on to live a full life, irrelevant of whether they choose to go through the justice system.
The petition "Support for victims of sexual abuse" needs many more signatures in order to be heard, I wanted to ask if you could add your name too.
This campaign means a lot to me and the more support we can get behind it, the better chance we have of succeeding. You can read more and sign the petition here:
you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/support-for-victims-of-sexual-abuse
Thank you!
P.S. Can you also take a moment to share the petition with others? It's really easy – all you need to do is forward this email or share this link on Facebook or Twitter:
you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/support-for-victims-of-sexual-abuse