In a move, which will undoubtedly help support victims of sex crimes across the country, charity, Rape Crisis Scotland is to be given £1.85m from the Scottish Government, Justice Secretary Michael Matheson has announced.
The funding is very much welcomed by all considering that the number of sex crimes in Scotland increased by 11% last year.
It is understood the money will be used by Rape Crisis Scotland to:
- Help develop Rape Crisis’ services in Orkney and Shetland;
- Provide support workers; and
- Increase the charity’s work with young people, in relation to consent and sexual health.
The said £1.85m is to be taken from the £20m – spread over three years – that First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has made available to in a bid tackle violence against Scotland’s women.
As part of their equality budget for 2015-16, an additional £11.8m has also been made available by the Government.
Commenting, Justice Secretary Michael Matheson, stated:
“We are absolutely committed to tackling domestic abuse and sexual offending in Scotland and this £1.85m funding will help provide important additional support for victims of these terrible crimes.
“Organisations such as Rape Crisis Scotland are doing fantastic work across the country, providing a vital service and giving support and advice for victims of sexual violence.
“Each of the 14 local rape crisis centres are receiving an 80% rise in financial support and the new services in Orkney and Shetland are very important – making sure women all over Scotland are able to access these vital services.”
Also commenting, Sandy Brindley, who is the National Co-ordinator for Rape Crisis Scotland, stated:
“This funding will enable every rape crisis centre across the country to employ a dedicated support and advocacy worker who will provide much needed support and assistance.
“The funding will also enable us to work in partnership with Women’s Aid to establish a rape crisis service across Orkney and Shetland.”
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Sexual offences are complex owing to their sensitive nature and the complex evidentiary issues, which surround them – often it is simply a matter of the victim’s word against that of the accused. Even the accusation of sexual offence – can have vast and are among the most difficult cases to defend and require the help of an experienced criminal defence solicitor. To get the advice, you need, please complete our online contact form.
