Sussex Police create a team to help victims of sexual assaults

Sussex Police has established a dedicated team of staff to help victims of serious sexual assaults. The team is made up of both trained police officers and office-based staff and they are taking part in special training for their new roles working alongside colleagues in the specialist Safeguarding Investigations Units. 

It is hoped that the team will enable investigators to complete high quality investigations knowing that the victim is being taken care of by specialists in the field. 

The Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner, Katy Bourne, has helped finance the team by a rise in the police precept proportion of council tax. Commenting on the subject, Katy said: “My commitment to support victims of crime and put them at the heart of the criminal justice system remains a key priority in our Police & Crime Plan.

"That is why I was pleased that the public supported an uplift in last year’s precept - with a large proportion going to increase resources in Sussex Police’s Public Protection unit. These specially trained officers will perform a vital role in terms of case processing, supporting investigation and providing services directly to victims of serious sexual assault.

"All victims tell me that what matters the most to them is being kept informed. So it is vital that victims of serious sexual assault receive ongoing communication and that there is a joined up approach from all of those involved – it is only by doing this that we can contribute to a more just outcome.”

For further information about support available for victims of sexual offences see the Sussex Police website here.