Independent Sexual Violence Advocate Service
Cambridge and Peterborough Rape Crisis Partnership (CAPRCP) offers practical information and advocacy support for survivors of sexual violence through its Independent Sexual Violence Advocate (ISVA) service. The adult ISVA service works with people aged 19 and over and the Children and Young People’s ISVA (ChISVA) supports survivors aged 18 and under. The role was introduced in 2006 as part of a Home Office-led initiative to improve outcomes for victims of these crimes.
ISVAs offer practical and emotional support to anyone who has been raped or sexually assaulted, recently or in the past. They can help you to access other available support services to address both short- and long-term needs. They can support you through the criminal justice system, providing information on what happens when you report to the police.
You do not have to report to the police to get support from an ISVA. They can help those who are not reporting to access support for their emotional needs as well as help with safety planning. They can help you understand how the criminal justice process works, such as what will happen if you report to the police, what will happen if you report anonymously or the importance and process of forensic DNA retrieval.
ISVAs will support you in a non-judgmental way to work with you to identify your needs and ensure that other agencies provide you with information.
Anglia Ruskin University students
Cambridge Rape Crisis Centre is working in partnership with Anglia Ruskin University (ARU).
Almost two thirds (62%) of students and graduates experience sexual violence at university in the UK, which is why it’s crucial that students have access to specialised independent support.
The ARU Student Sexual Violence Advocate (SSVA) supports student survivors of sexual violence by offering practical support and advocacy to students who are reporting to ARU, or to the police.
All ARU students can access SSVA support, regardless of the campus they study on.
To make a self-referral, please click here: Sexual Violence Support – ARU