Aberdeen Rape-Support Charity Gets Cash Lifeline

A closure-threatened charity which helps the victims of rape and sexual abuse has been handed a cash lifeline by Aberdeenshire Council.

Rape and Abuse Support Aberdeen and North-East (RAS) expanded its service to Peterhead and Fraserburgh in March.

But after missing out on lottery funding the new branches were facing closure after just six months.

However, Aberdeenshire Council has stepped in with £5,000 of funding to help keep the branches going for another 12 months.

The number of sex attacks reported in Buchan soared between 2005 and 2006, and the statistics for Peterhead, Fraserburgh and Banff led to moves to establish the support centres.

In 2005, there were 105 sexual offences reported in north Aberdeenshire, including rape, unlawful sex with someone under the age of 16, indecent exposure, and lewd and libidinous practices.

The majority of the offences were committed in Fraserburgh (22), Peterhead (19) and Banff (13).

In 2006, the number of sexual offences reported in the towns increased by 59%, with the number of incidents in Peterhead almost doubling to 36.

The group previously received £5,100 each year from Aberdeenshire Council and the top-up now brings the total grant to £10,100.

Councillor Gurudeo Saluja, chairman of Aberdeenshire Council’s social work and housing committee, said: “I am pleased to agree an increase in grant funding to ensure much needed services exist to support victims of rape and sexual assault.

“The money will ensure that those involved in such incidents receive the care, counselling and support they need in Aberdeenshire rather than having to travel too far.”

Pat Wokoma, an outreach worker at the organisation, said the extra cash would guarantee the organisation’s future for another year.

“RAS is also mindful of the need for further satellite services in areas of Aberdeenshire,” she added. “It is our intention to work towards developing our services to reach other areas and for more women to be able to access this valuable support.

“Since establishing our first satellite bases in Aberdeenshire in March 2008 we have supported 15 women.”

For more information about Rape and Abuse Support, phone 01224 620772, e-mail at [email protected] or visit www.rasane.org.uk