Funding boost for abuse victims’ charity

A Highland charity supporting survivors of rape and sexual abuse has received a massive boost thanks to National Lottery funding.

The Rape and Sexual Abuse Service Highland (RASASH) is to get £132,906 of lottery cash to continue its work.

RASASH supports hundreds of victims with accessible, appropriate emotional and practical support as well as advocacy.

The group provides one-to-one emotional support on a face-to-face basis or via telephone, email, Skype or text.

Chairwoman Cathy Christie said: “We are delighted to hear our application to the Big Lottery Fund has been successful. This will allow us to continue to provide

“Support is tailored to meet individual needs”

support services for people aged 13 plus and living in the Highland Council area.

“We provide regular face to face therapeutic emotional support to over 225 survivors of sexual violence a year and last year also dealt with over 1,000 calls on our support line.”

She added: “Support is tailored to meet individual needs and many survivors have described our service as a lifeline.

“Referrals are increasing every year and it’s fantastic to have secured this funding and to know we will be able to continue to provide this much needed service.”

Another group to benefit from lottery funds is the East & Central Sutherland Community Care Forum which got £67,724. The cash will enable the group to continue and expand their befriending service which supports isolated and vulnerable individuals in local communities.