Author and Job Role: Lucy Thomas, Commissioning & Policy Lead for Victim Services
Protective Marking: OFFICIAL
Executive Summary:
Police and Crime Commissioners have the statutory responsibility to provide services to support victims to cope and recover. Demand for support for survivors of rape and sexual abuse has continued to increase given the delays in the Criminal Justice System, this is both in terms of Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVAs) who offer practical support, advice and advocacy, as well as demand for counselling. Whilst over recent years funding for services has remained static.
Applications for the Grant
To award RASASC £80,000 in 2025/26 so they can sustain their ISVA service for the county.
Recommendation
The PCC supports the recommended funding allocation of £80,000 to RASASC, this funding will come from the Ministry of Justice Domestic Abuse & Sexual Violence Fund as well as the PCC’s own fund.
Police and Crime Commissioner Approval
I approve the recommendation(s):
Signature: PCC Lisa Townsend (wet signed copy held in Office)
Date: 16th April 2025
All decisions must be added to the decision register.
Areas of consideration
Consultation
NA
Financial implications
NA
Legal
NA
Risks
Uncertain funding from the Ministry of Justice post March 2026.
Equality and diversity
no implications
Risks to human rights
No risks