University to map sexual violence support services in Suffolk as figures show most victims stay silent

The big picture: The University of Suffolk is launching the county's first comprehensive mapping of sexual violence support services, as figures reveal the extent of the challenge.

Nearly all of those (97%) who accessed support services reported feeling more in control of their lives, however:

• Only one in six victims of rape report the crime to police
• 45% of Suffolk victims withdraw from police investigations

Why it matters: With Suffolk Rape Crisis closing last summer and nearly half of victims withdrawing from police investigations, understanding gaps in support services is crucial for helping survivors and bringing offenders to justice.

Professor Miranda Horvath, Director of the Institute for Social Justice and Crime at the University of Suffolk, said: "Ensuring victims of sexual violence have access to the right support services is crucial to their wellbeing. With so many victims withdrawing from police investigations after they have reported their experiences, more must be done to provide them with the support they deserve."

Professor Valerie Gladwell, Director of the University of Suffolk’s Institute of Health and Wellbeing added: “Sexual violence remains a significant problem in both Suffolk and the UK as a whole, and can have severe and long-lasting impacts on victims’ health, including depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder.

“By ensuring the voices of victims, support services and commissioners are included in this research, we can help inform the future strategies which will deliver a cohesive, joined-up approach to support in our county.”

What they're doing: The research will:

• Map current support service provision across Suffolk
• Identify gaps and duplications in services
• Highlight good practices
• Make recommendations for future strategies
• Cover all ages, all victims and all types of sexual violence

What's next: Researchers are gathering insights throughout January from:

• Victims and survivors aged 18 and over (complete the survey)
• Service providers (complete the survey)
• Commissioners of support services (complete the survey)

Suffolk Police and Crime Commissioner Tim Passmore said: "There is an ongoing concern at victims' reluctance to report these appalling crimes and too many are also withdrawing support from the investigations. There is a desperate need to improve detection and conviction rates."

The study began in December and will report its findings in late March.

Bottom line: With sexual violence support services under pressure and conviction rates remaining low, this first-ever mapping exercise could prove crucial for rebuilding Suffolk's support network for survivors.