New sexual abuse support model launched across Devon and Cornwall

Survivors of rape and sexual abuse across Devon and Cornwall will receive improved support under a new service model launched by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC).

The new approach, introduced on 2 February, follows a competitive tender process and is intended to provide a more joined-up system for survivors, with clearer pathways into help and stronger coordination between support services. The launch coincided with Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week.

The OPCC said the model will strengthen local leadership, coordination and oversight, helping to ensure survivors receive trauma-informed support that better meets their individual needs.

A former service user and now ambassador of Devon Rape Crisis and Sexual Abuse Services welcomed the new model after waiting almost two years for therapy following a referral in 2022.

She said: “It was a massive step to ask for help, especially around sexual violence as there is so much stigma and shame. You build yourself up ready to speak about it and then you have to carry on as normal while you wait. My mental health suffered trying to cope with it but when I did get support it was fantastic.

“Waits have thankfully now improved. The new model sounds really good because survivors will be able to get support quicker and it recognises some people need different things.”

Bethan Ridge, specialist support team leader for Devon Rape Crisis and Sexual Abuse Services, said the new model would strengthen collaboration and widen choice for survivors.

She said: “My team are so looking forward to working more collaboratively with our new partners who are coming on board through this contract. It feels we now have a more rounded partnership which will further deepen survivor choice, as well as support our resilience, enable us to share best practice, and work in solidarity with like-minded charities who all want the best for survivors of rape and sexual abuse in Devon.”

Under the new model, lead providers have been appointed across Cornwall, Devon and Torbay, Plymouth and surrounding areas. They will coordinate delivery locally and work with partner organisations to make access to therapy and specialist support easier for both adults and children.

Cornwall
The Women’s Centre Cornwall will lead a partnership delivering the Oak Service, providing therapeutic support for men and women who have experienced sexual violence and sexual abuse. Partners include CLEAR trauma therapy and counselling (leading on children’s services), Konnect Communities, Intercom Trust, Olive Project and Pegasus Men’s Wellbeing. Services will be fully available under the model from April.

Devon and Torbay
The Children’s Society and Devon Rape Crisis and Sexual Abuse Services will partner with Intercom Trust, Co-Lab and What’s Your Problem.

Plymouth
First Light will work in partnership with Young Devon, Victim Support and Operation Emotion.

The total investment over the five-year contract is £6.7 million, with the majority funded by the OPCC. Additional funding contributions will come from Torbay Council, Plymouth City Council, Cornwall Council and Devon County Council, with overarching support from NHS England.

Supporting victims to cope and recover is a key responsibility of Police and Crime Commissioners, who commission victim services across their police force areas.

Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez said: “A crucial priority of mine has been to make sure every victim of sexual abuse receives the right free support from the services my office invests in.

“In Devon and Cornwall, we have seen a concerning rise in recorded sexual offences over the years. Since 2010, the number of these crimes has more than tripled. This investment will ensure the help victims need is available.”

The Commissioner recently visited Phoenix Rising in Torquay, a support service for survivors of domestic and sexual abuse. The organisation said wraparound services are essential for victims.

Claire Knight, CEO of Phoenix Rising, said: “There is a gap and a need for a contract like this and we are hoping to work with those services to bring that support.”

How to access support

Victims can access OPCC-funded support online, including the Devon & Cornwall Police Victim Care Unit, via the Victim Care website.

The OPCC has also produced a video resource explaining what happens when rape and serious sexual offences are reported to police, and what support is available throughout the criminal justice process, as part of its Criminal Justice and You online service.