Signposting - Support for families - Sexual Violence Advisory Service

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Section: Signposting

Subsection: Signposting - Support for families

Sexual Violence Advisory Service

The Swindon & Wiltshire Independent Sexual Violence Advisory (ISVA) Service is provided by First Light. Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVAs) can help to ease any anxiety anyone have about going to court, by explaining and simplifying the complexities of the legal process. First Light will arrange for a dedicated advisor to represent you at interviews and court appearances and help by being your voice and advocating for you when you feel overwhelmed. All of First Light’s ISVAs have completed National Accredited Training.


First Light also have specific, specially trained ISVAs that the Swindon & Wiltshire ISVAs can access: -
• a neurodiverse ISVA, working with clients with diverse needs,
• LGBTQ+ ISVAs who understand the particular needs of this community

You can access sexual violence support services by telephoning: 0300 373 2715, or make a secure referral [online]. More information is available on the [First Light website].

If you have experienced rape and sexual assault in Wiltshire (even if it isn’t recent), the Swindon and Wiltshire Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) can offer help. You can contact the SARC directly with or without police involvement. It’s a safe place where you’ll find confidential practical and emotional support from a team of specialist staff.

For information and advice, you can contact the Swindon and Wiltshire SARC by telephoning: 01793 781916 and speaking to one of their specialist trained crisis workers. The support telephone line is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. For non-recent referrals, you can make a [secure referral online].

Further information about the SARC and what happens during an appointment is available on the [First Light website].