Sexual assault support centre opens in Guernsey

Charlie Cox said it was really special this service was now in place

A centre supporting victims of sexual assault has opened in Guernsey.

Trained crisis workers at the Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) will support and advise on cases of sexual abuse or assault, recent or historic, and will be available 24 hours a day.

The service, named Willow House, will also carry out forensic medical examinations on behalf of the police.

The States announced plans to start a centre to combat domestic and sexual violence in the island in 2022, with its helpline launching in October 2023.

Charlie Cox, SARC manager, said supporting victims had always been a priority.

She said: "I think over the last 12 years people have known there's a need for a sexual assault centre, the police have worked so tirelessly to offer the best service that they can for victims without having a SARC.

"The fact that Willow House is now open and we can provide a service that we all know victims of sexual assault deserve is really special."

Deputy Rob Prow, President of the Home Affairs Committee, said the centre was placed at the North Plantation to keep it independent from the police.

He said: "We are fortunate to have a police force in Guernsey that takes any kind of sexual offence incredibly seriously, however we also know that for victims, it can sometimes be very intimidating approaching the police in the first instance.

"The SARC offers an alternative to this, that will still ensure the right advice is offered and the correct evidence gathered, so offenders can be brought to justice."