New £3m centre opens in York to support sex attack victims
Acer House replaces the existing York facility which is a converted two-storey house in a residential street.The new centre has national forensic accreditation, which means it provides a standard of evidence that would give the best possible chance of prosecution.The centre was designed with help from survivors of serious sexual offences.It features soft furnishings, toys for children, private waiting rooms and minimal police signage to help visitors feel more comfortable.Suspects will never be interviewed in the building, York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority said.
Coles said: "Last year we know there were over 300 referrals to our Sexual Assault Referral Centre, hundreds more reports to the police of rape and sexual assault, and tragically, almost certainly many more cases that were never reported."She said she and the mayor were "determined to tackle the appalling levels of violence against women and girls in our region"."As part of that work, it is vital women and girls feel safe to report incidences of rape and sexual assault," she said.David Skaith, York and North Yorkshire Mayor, said: "The care and attention that has gone into providing a safe space for victims is plain to see."He said the centre offered "vital improved resources and support for individuals across the whole of our region".
Listen to highlights from North Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.
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