A specialist centre in Worcestershire is urging victims of sexual abuse to come forward - stressing that reporting to the police is not their only option.

The Glade Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC), based in Bransford, has supported more than 3,300 people since it opened its doors 10 years ago in November 2012.

Hannah Taylor, SARC Manager, said: “We recognise that not everyone wants to involve the police when they’ve been assaulted.

"At the SARC we can offer the option to gather and store evidence, which then gives a victim time to think about their options.”

The service offers a range of services – including forensic examinations, storage of evidence, counselling and access to sexual health and support – to any adult who has been raped or sexually assaulted across Worcestershire, Herefordshire, Shropshire and Telford and Wrekin.

Victims can self refer to The Glade and access their services without reporting to the police. Alternatively if someone does report to the police, they may be offered the SARC services as part of the police’s investigation.

Mrs Taylor added “This week it is Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness week which is a national campaign to get people talking about sexual abuse.

"We want to challenge the myths and stereotypes that surround sexual abuse and break down the barriers to enable more people to come forward and access support”.

The Glade operates a 24 hour self referral line on 0808 178 2058.

For more information on the work they do, visit: www.theglade.org.uk