When I was sexually assaulted, I desperately searched for support, a place to feel safe and heard, but in Suffolk, those services are painfully inadequate. For survivors of sexual violence like myself, the lack of a dedicated survivor centred crisis service leaves us feeling isolated and helpless, compounding the trauma we've already endured. This is not just my story, but the experience of countless others who suffer in silence without access to the resources they need to heal.

Services like Rape Crisis Centres provide essential services that go beyond immediate crisis intervention. They offer long-term support, counselling, and advocacy to help survivors rebuild their lives. These services are invaluable in providing a lifeline to individuals who may otherwise suffer alone. In the UK, areas with such centres see a profound positive impact, yet Suffolk residents are still waiting for their voices to be heard and their needs to be met.

Survivors of sexual violence in Suffolk need and deserve a safe space where they can access the help they need. This is why I'm urging Jess Philips MP to take action and commit to funding a rape crisis service in Suffolk. This centre will provide much-needed, specialized assistance and advocacy, ensuring that survivors are not left without support during their most vulnerable times.

In addition to offering critical services to victims, establishing a rape crisis service in Suffolk would also raise awareness and promote education about sexual violence, emphasising prevention and the importance of community support. It’s time for Suffolk to join other regions across the UK in prioritizing the safety and recovery of its residents.

The statistics are stark: according to the Office for National Statistics, sexual offences remain one of the most under-reported crimes, and survivors often face significant barriers when seeking justice and aid. A dedicated centre could help bridge this gap, encouraging more individuals to step forward.

Please join me in calling on Jess Philips MP to support this vital initiative. Let’s make sure that no survivor in Suffolk is left without the help they need. Sign this petition to give voices to those who have been silenced, and to take a stand for the essential services that can make all the difference in a survivor’s journey to healing. Let's ensure that hope, support, and recovery are within reach for everyone in our community.