"The ISVA service offers discreet, friendly and practical support which makes you feel you are in safe hands."

Sometimes a person who has experienced rape or abuse may not be ready for counselling but instead need practical and emotional support through a period of crisis. Crisis and Advocacy workers (also known as Independent Sexual Violence Advisers or ISVAs) can provide this support to anyone aged 11 years or older, regardless of gender.

The service can:

• Explain what reporting to the police involves to help someone make their own informed decision
• Provide independent support through a criminal investigation and court proceedings
• Provide emotional support through a period of crisis with face to face and/or telephone support
• Liaise with other services and agencies (for example mental health or housing) on someone's behalf 
• Support family members and significant others through a criminal investigation

The service is:

• Non-judgemental
• Understanding
• Respectful of choices
• Independent and professional
• Expert and specialised in issues concerning sexual violence
• Fully on the side of victims and survivors 
• There to empower and enable those it supports

The ISVA role was established at CRASAC in 2006 through funding from the Home Office. It is a role that has been recognised as essential in order to improve responses to victims of sexual violence in the criminal justice system. 

People who have very recently been assaulted who need support outside of our contact hours may wish to go to the sexual assault referral centre (SARC) to get medical help and forensics. Always telephone 999 in an emergency. 

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Specialist emotional and practical support for anyone in crisis as a result of recent or historic sexual violence

Advice about reporting with no pressure to do so