Thames Valley Police have teamed up with Victims First following a decrease in people seeking support following sexual offences during the Coronavirus lockdown.
Some crisis centres across the region have seen a reduction in the number of people seeking support due to 'fear of repercussions around not complying with Covid-19 restrictions'.
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Detective Superintendent Rebecca Mears, Head of Protecting Vulnerable People from Thames Valley Police said: “Our priority first and foremost is to protect people.
"Whatever the circumstances are surrounding a sexual assault taking place, we urge victims to come forward and seek the necessary support and if possible, report the offence to us so that we can take action to protect others.
"Please do not be concerned.”
Eddie Fitzpatrick, Victims First Hub Manager said: “We know how difficult it can be for victims to come forward and ask for help but we want to assure people that if you’ve experienced rape or sexual assault, we will support you, regardless of when or where the incident happened, or whether or not you’ve chosen to report it to the police.
"Please contact us and one of our Victims First Officers will work with you to get the support you need."
You can contact Victims First on 0300 1234 148 or online at www.victims-first.org.uk
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