The numbers of survivors of sexual violence contacting OSARCC for support is continuing to increase. Covid-19, lengthy periods of lockdown and the high-profile cases in the media have prompted many to seek support which has caused substantial waiting lists for our services, some up to 18 months. Survivors can need therapeutic support via our one-to-one counselling, support groups or psychoeducation and some need practical support via our advocacy service.

OSARCC is the only provider of holistic specialist services for survivors of sexual violence in Oxfordshire. In response to increased demand, we expanded our Listening Services to support women on our waiting list. This includes employing a Frontline Support Worker to engage with survivors within 2 weeks of initial contact and offering a monthly callback service delivered via our existing team of listening volunteers to check on survivors safety and welfare whilst they wait for indepth support.