£1.6m funds for rape victim support - News in brief - Evening Standard
       

£1.6m funds for rape victim support

The Government has announced a £1.6 million boost for charities helping victims of rape and sexual violence.

Minister for Women and Equality Harriet Harman said the money would go to rape crisis centres and the Survivors Trust sexual violence charities across England and Wales.

They provide support and specialist services, such as counselling and advocacy, for men and women who have been raped or experienced sexual violence.

Ms Harman said: "Rape is one of the most devastating offences. This fund is important to safeguard the local organisations who support women who have been the victims of rape."

Home Secretary Jacqui Smith added: "Rape is an appalling crime and I am determined to ensure that every victim has immediate access to the services and support they need.

"I want more victims to feel confident to come forward and report these crimes so that we can bring the perpetrators to justice.

"This special fund will support the important work of organisations supporting victims of sexual violence, which provide essential support and advice to victims."

News in brief in Pictures

Don't Miss
Rock star: Erin Wasson

Rock star

Erin Wasson is the ultimate anti-supermodel
Maybe it’s because she’s a Londoner … Happy anniversary, Ma’am

Happy anniversary

The monarchy has become stronger and more respected in the past 60 years
Victoria Coren: My obsession with children, five proposals a week and why David and I are no power couple

Victoria Coren

David Mitchell and I are no power couple
The Royal Academy of Arts Summer Exhibition preview party

Summer party

Stars at the The Royal Academy of Arts
London gets ready for the Diamond Jubilee - in pictures

Diamond Jubilee

London gets ready - in pictures
The Glamour Awards - stars turn on the style

Glamour Awards

Stars turn on the style
Duchess of Cambridge is pretty in pink at her first Buckingham Palace garden party

Garden party

Duchess of Cambridge is pretty in pink
FIRST review of Ridley Scott's latest sci-fi blockbuster Prometheus

First review

Is Ridley Scott's Prometheus any good?
Fair-weather goths

Fair-weather goths

The sultry shades of summer darks are coming out of the shadows
Dog save the Queen: Corgis surge in popularity

Dog save the Queen

Corgis surge in popularity