Mayor’s report finds support for survivors of sexual violence lacking in the Capital

The End Violence Against Women Coalition welcomes the London Mayor’s recognition today that sexual violence services in the capital are inadequately funded, and his announcement of £4m in additional funding to help plug the gap.

The London Sexual Violence Needs Assessment 2016, published by the Mayors Office of Police and Crime today, criticises a lack of strategic approach at a London or borough level to reduce the prevalence of sexual violence, or to support groups who are particularly vulnerable.

Rachel Krys, Co-Director of EVAW said:

“Given London has had a violence against women strategy for years, these criticisms are deeply concerning. The extra money announced today is an important first step- and something we have long called for. Next the Mayor must ensure that his new Police and Crime Plan reflects the other findings of this report, providing not just an ongoing and increased funding plan but also a blue-print for better working with the NHS, schools and local authorities to detect and prevent endemic levels of sexual violence in London.”

The report particularly highlights inadequate funding of third sector providers, saying:

“Ongoing support services provided by the third sector were rated highly by survivors but all were struggling with increased demand and limited resources.”

Following serious police failings revealed by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary on Friday, the Mayor has also pledged to put victims at the heart of his new strategy, and will set up a new scrutiny group to ensure that improvements are made to safeguard London’s vulnerable young people.