40 extra officers will join Lancashire Police in the coming months, establishing a dedicated Rape and Serious Sexual Offences Team.
Funded by Police and Crime Commissioner Andrew Snowden, the new officers will join existing colleagues to bring offenders to justice and improve outcomes for victims as part of the delivery of the Commissioner’s Police and Crime Plan priority of tackling sexual violence.
The announcement of the Commissioner’s investment comes during this year’s Sexual Violence Awareness Week and was approved at the Lancashire’s Police and Crime Panel last week.
The new posts will be created thanks to the Police Uplift Programme as well as additional funding raised through the precept, the policing element of council tax.
Mr Snowden said: “Sexual violence of any kind is completely unacceptable and Sexual Violence Awareness Week is an opportunity to share that message loud and clear.
“I’ve made tackling rape and sexual assault a key priority in my Police and Crime Plan and the investment in specialist officers I have pledged will make a real difference
“I want to improve outcomes for victims and help to drive up conviction rates here in Lancashire and the dedicated new team of officers will work towards this. Victims deserve the best possible service from their police force and investment in this area will ensure that we tackle offenders and that victims of this type of crime receive the justice they deserve.
“While my key priority is to keep people safe, I also believe that we need to provide the best support to anyone affected by rape or sexual assault. This is why I will continue to invest in Lancashire Victim Services to provide specialist, face to face support through their team of Independent Sexual Violence Advisors.”
Assistant Chief Constable Ian Dawson, who is leading the Violence against Women and Girls workstream at Lancashire Police, said: “Lancashire is recognised nationally as having a high number of positive outcomes for people affected by rape and sexual assault, however, we know there are areas in which we can improve. The investment is very welcome, and these additional officers will further enhance our ability to provide the best possible service to victims and to bring perpetrators to justice.”
Claire Powell, Area Manager for Lancashire Victim Services added: “We understand the terrible effects sexual abuse can have on victims and the importance of being there when they need us.
“Our specialist team is here to provide emotional support and practical help to ensure people can move forward from what has happened to them.
“My message to anyone affected by rape, sexual assault or sexual violence of any kind is simple: Please contact us. We will work with you at your pace, and we will help you find the best way forward for your circumstances.’’
Lancashire Victim Services can be contacted 24/7 via the live chat at lancashirevictimservices.org or by calling 0300 323 0085.
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