THE POLICE and Crime Commissioner in Thames Valley, Matthew Barber, visited a charity supporting victims of sexual violence to mark White Ribbon Day.
White Ribbon Day is observed annually across the world working to end male violence against women and girls.
On Monday, November 25, Mr Barber visited the charity Hope After Harm, which provides a number of support services to victims of sexual violence.
He met the team to hear more about developments in the service and how it has been supporting victims of sexual violence to cope with the impact of their experience.
Since its launch in April 2024, the service has supported nearly 700 people.
The Thames Valley Sexual Violence Service offers a range of support including specialist Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVAs) who offer emotional and practical 1-2-1 support and who can support victims through the criminal justice system.
A range of peer support and informal and structured specialist group support has also been developed.
Previously delivered by the Thames Valley Partnership, the charity now delivers the Thames Valley Sexual Violence Service and was funded and commissioned by the Police and Crime Commissioner earlier this year.
This formed a part of its wider Victims First initiative.
This year’s White Ribbon Day is geared towards encouraging men to hold themselves accountable to women, and to each other, so that positive behavioural changes can be made to make women and girls safer.
Mr Barber said: “One of my top priorities is to continue to support the police, criminal justice partners and victim services to help those who are subject to some of the worst crimes imaginable.
“This dedicated free support to people affected by sexual violence and abuse is key in rebuilding lives and is offering a much needed service to hundreds of victims.
“I am pleased to be able to visit today and meet the team delivering this invaluable support, and to find out more about the impact it is having in helping victims and survivors across our communities.
“I know it can be difficult for victims of crime, especially those who have experienced sexual violence or domestic abuse, to reach out for help.
“Victims do not need to have reported the crime to the police to receive support. This White Ribbon Day I urge anyone needing support to contact Victims First.”
Thalia Jervis, CEO of Hope After Harm said: “It is our privilege to be there to support victims of sexual violence through the darkest of times.
“We are hugely grateful to the PCC for their support. And also, to our dedicated and expert Independent Sexual Violence Advisers who provide such expert and compassionate help, alongside our volunteers, enabling those we serve to move on with their lives.”
Those in need of support can contact Victims First by calling 0300 123 4148
