Hospitals’ support for victims of sex abuse
SOUTHPORT And Ormskirk Hospital NHS Trust has appointed a staff member to support victims and survivors of sexual abuse.
Faye Speed, health sexual violence liaison officer, has been employed by the trust with funding from Lancashire’s Police And Crime Commissioner to:
Empower healthcare staff in dealing with victims of sexual abuse, both recent and historic.
Create a clear referral path for staff and victims identified in the hospital setting.
Identify victims, particularly those in mental health crisis, and enable them to obtain the correct support to prevent repeat admissions.
Prevent repeat victimisation by offering victims a chance to obtain support.
Improve integration between community services and healthcare pathways.
Therese Patten, acting chief executive, said: “Sexual abuse is a hidden issue that can happen to anyone.
“This new role will offer practical help, advice and information for anyone who has experienced rape, sexual abuse, historic abuse or sexual harassment at any time in their life.
“Thank you to the Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner for funding this crucial role.”
Lancashire PCC Clive Grunshaw said: “I am delighted to see this post established within the trust.
“Hospitals are a place of safety for many people, so it is no surprise that survivors of sexual violence find the courage to disclose what has happened to them while they are there.
“Placing specialist services in health settings is a great step forward and gives us the opportunity to offer anyone affected the right support at the earliest opportunity.
“This type of support has already been established in other areas of Lancashire and it is fantastic to see it expand further.
“Supporting victims is a key priority for me and it is through projects like this that we can make a real difference to people and ensure that they can access the help they need and deserve to come to terms with what has happened.”
For support or advice call Faye on 07818 533 845 or 01704 705 248.