Statement following launch of dedicated NSPCC helpline

Surrey Police welcomes the announcement by the Department for Education to set up a dedicated helpline to support victims and survivors who have suffered sexual abuse within educational settings.  

 

The helpline, which will be run by the NSPCC, follows the launch of a national website “Everyone’s Invited”, a space where anyone who has experienced harassment, abuse and assault is encouraged to share their story.

The policing response will be coordinated by Operation Hydrant, who will work closely with the NSPCC and the Department for Education.

Detective Chief Inspector Adam Tatton from Surrey Police, said: “We welcome any initiative which provides support for those who have been the victim of a sexual offence who wish to speak out. A number of accounts had been published on this website relating to previous or current experiences within educational settings in Surrey, and it is good to know that these victims will have somewhere they can seek professional support and advice.

““We understand that some victims will not want to report their abuse to police. However, if victims do wish to come forward, they can be confident that they will be believed, treated with compassion and respect, before a thorough investigation is undertaken.

 “We would also encourage anyone who may have any information regarding child sexual abuse to come forward. When allegations are reported, it enables police to assess whether there are current safeguarding risks and ensures appropriate action is taken.”

Further support in Surrey can be obtained:

Contact the Surrey Solace Centre for free support and practical help if you have experienced sexual violence and/or sexual abuse. The service is completely confidential and you do not have to give any personal information in order to get help. ​If you would like to speak to someone, they are available 24/7 on 0300 130 3038. https://www.surreysolace.org/

You can also get support from the Rape And Sexual Abuse Support Centre (RASASC) which offers a helpline, counselling and independent sexual violence advisors for anyone who has been a victim of rape and sexual abuse in Surrey. The helpline is available Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings from 7.30pm-9.30pm for female and male callers any age. Local 01483 546400 or Freephone 0800 0288 022. https://www.rasasc.org/

 

**Anyone with information about an offence which may have been committed should contact police on 101, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.**