Our ISVAs are trained specialists who provide practical and emotional support, advocacy and advice to adults of any gender and background who have been affected by rape and sexual abuse. (For survivors under 18 see our ChISVA service page).
Our ISVA service is independent of any statutory authority and is provided free of cost.
Our ISVA will be non-judgemental and friendly and will not ask for any intimate details.
What our ISVAs can do for you:
- provide information and advice to help you decide what you want
- listen to you, believe you and help you to deal with your problems at your own pace, one step at a time
- provide a confidential and professional service
- ensure that you receive care, understanding and emotional support
- offer support through the criminal justice system at any stage
- offer support even if you choose not to report to the police – this may involve signposting to other agencies
- offer information and advice to help you to decide whether to report
- support you to make a report to the police
- support with police or CPS decisions
- attend police interviews and court with you
- support you at medical appointments (subject to availability), e.g. with your GP, sexual health or family planning clinic
- support you at meetings with other agencies, e.g. with the council, employers, Citizens Advice or mental health teams
- advise about services you are entitled to and help you access them
- liaise and refer you to other agencies, e.g. confidential support with drugs or alcohol issues
- explain Criminal Injuries Compensation and civil claims relating to sexual abuse
- offer protective behaviours work e.g. re safety and healthy relationships
Through our empathetic, confidential and supportive service we aim to assist you in re-establishing and regaining control of your life, whether or not you choose to report to the police.
If you would like to access our ISVA service, please call our helpline on 0118 9584033, email support@trusthouse.org.uk or complete our referral form using the button below.
Referral form
