Police, charities and universities join forces to tackle sexual violence in Lancashire

People in Preston are set to stand in solidarity against sexual violence in the city centre later.

It's as a week of action against sexual violence is taking place across the North West this week.

Lancashire Victim Services receive over 300 referrals each month for victims of sexual offences.

This includes around 100 children and young people (aged 17 and under) and around 150 victims of rape and serious sexual assault/abuse.

Becky Williams is from The Rape Centre which is leading the action, she said: "Anyone that is attending any of the vigils or would like to come along, we would ask them to bring an LED torch or use your phone light and ideally wear purple.

"We're hoping to light up as many buildings across the North West in purple to stand in solidarity across the week for survivors.

"A lot of the stalled events that are happening are completely anonymous and they're confidential so we've got a lot of restrictions on photography.

"There are also going to be safe spaces provided at each event so people can have confidential disclosures there privately with professionals.

"It's so important to make people aware of the support and how they can get access to the support. A lot of people don't know that it's your choice whether you choose to report to the police or not but there is still support even if you choose not to report it. You can still access a forensic medical examination and counselling as well."

Throughout North West Sexual Violence Awareness Week, sexual violence services across North West England will be promoting their local sexual violence support services through several activities and outputs.

From Monday 8 November until Friday 12 November, each county will be hosting their own dedicated event/activity to raise awareness within their communities.

Using art, music and survivor stories, Tuesday 9th November sees a Lancashire-wide event to raise awareness of what everyone can do to prevent sexual violence, inform survivors of the services and support available to them, and empower people by offering space to share their stories.

Where?

• (10am set up, event 11- 4pm) The Flag Market/ Harris Museum, Preston, Lancashire

• Clear out 4-5pm

• 5-6pm vigil with poetry reading

In the run up to the event, universities and survivors will be creating artwork which will be unveiled on the day.

This will be stitched together to show the joined up, collaborative support across Lancashire.