Grant to help sex crime victims

A £200,000 grant is to help pay for special units where police can care for the victims of sexual assault.

Six forces have been awarded a share of the government money to help them set up Sexual Assault Referral Centres.

The new facilities are designed to provide medical care and also practical advice to the victims of sex attacks.

The Home Office said the centres would also give victims the opportunity to take a greater role in the forensic examination process.

We want victims to feel more confident from the outset that their case is treated with professionalism and empathy Home Office Minister Hazel Blears

The money will mean that six forces are able to set up referral centres later in the year, the government said.

The Hampshire and West Midlands constabularies have been awarded £50,000, with West Mercia and Kent Police getting £30,000.

A grant of £20,000 has been made to the Derbyshire and Cambridgeshire forces.

Home Office Minister Hazel Blears said: "Rape is an horrendous crime, which deeply affects the lives of victims and their families, and which inspires fear in our communities.

"These centres provide support and medical help to victims, while helping to get the evidence to prosecute offenders.

"We want victims to feel more confident from the outset that their case is treated with professionalism and empathy."