Rape survivor group using new tech

Peterborough Rape Crisis Care Group is pioneering new technology to continue to offer essential helpline services to survivors of sexual violence throughout lockdown (and beyond).

The charity, which has been running a helpline for 37 years, has started using VOIP technology to allow its team of volunteers to divert helpline calls to them remotely.

This of course means volunteers and staff can reduce their risk of COVID-19, while still offering a non-judgemental ear to those in need of it.

Survivors who were previously receiving face-to-face support have been offered the opportunity to continue this via text, video link or phonecalls.

Lizzy Dening, co-vice vhair of the charity, says: “Our helpline has always been at the centre of what we do at PRCCG. While we’re proud to have added a range of other services over the years, the helpline was our first step towards reaching survivors, and our staff and volunteers have been amazingly quick at getting the new tech up and running to cause as little disruption in our service as possible. Now, more than ever, we want to reassure survivors that they are not alone in this challenging period, and our dedicated team is here if they need us.”

The organisation also has some big plans to further the support on offer in the coming month.

“We are working hard to deliver support to survivors on our therapeutic waiting list, and this should start next week,” says Heather Birch, PRCCG’s Services Manager.

“Meanwhile, we’re carrying on as normal while working from our homes, with office calls now diverted to mobile and referrals via our website being processed as always.”

The helpline will run as normal from 7pm-9pm every Wednesday, 10am-noon on Saturdays. Call 01733 852 578 or visit https://www.prccg. org.uk/

Peterborough Rape Crisis