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New campaign to sexual assault survivors

Alice Smith
BBC News, Bristol
BBC A silhouette of a woman standing next to a window looking out at the clouds.BBC
The "We're Here" campaign aims to ensure survivors of sexual assault know where to find expert care and .

A new campaign has been launched in Bristol to raise awareness of the services available to sexual assault survivors.

Funded by the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for Avon and Somerset and NHS England, the "We're Here" campaign aims to ensure victims know where to find expert care and .

The initiative is backed by Bristol City Council, the University of Bristol, UWE Bristol, and their respective students' unions.

Police and Crime Commissioner Clare Moody said: "One of my key priorities is ensuring that victim-survivors have access to high-quality, expert ."

She added: "This campaign will help more people understand that they do not have to face this alone."

The new initiative will share information across social media, city networks, and outreach efforts to ensure survivors in Bristol can access the they need.

It involves three key local organisations offering free, confidential, and independent for survivors:

  • The Bridge - a Sexual Assault Referral Centre providing medical care, forensic services, and crisis .
  • Safe Link – offers Independent Sexual Violence Advisors to survivors through the criminal justice system and their recovery.
  • SARSAS – a specialist service providing counselling, group work, and trauma-informed care.

Nicola Shannon, Service Manager at The Bridge, said: "Seeking help takes courage.

"This campaign ensures survivors know is always available, whether or not they choose to involve the police."

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