Rape Crisis launches drop-in service
New service for women and girls who have experienced sexual violence
Monthly drop-in sessions are being launched in East Renfrewshire for women and girls who have experienced sexual violence.
Rape Crisis Glasgow & Clyde will be providing specialist support to women and girls (aged 13+) who have been raped, sexually assaulted or sexually abused.
Individuals can attend sessions whether the abuse happened recently or at any time in the past. There is no need for an appointment, and women can come along to a one-off session or as part of ongoing support.
A support worker will listen and assist individuals and signpost people to other organisations and services if needed.
Drop-ins will take place within a private room at two safe locations: at Barrhead Health & Care Centre (9.30am-12.30pm) and Eastwood Health & Care Centre (1.30pm-4.30pm). Sessions take place on the first Wednesday of each month, starting from June 7.
Cllr Katie Pragnell, Convener for Health & Social Care at East Renfrewshire Council, said: "We are delighted that Rape Crisis Glasgow and Clyde will be launching their new free and confidential drop-in service here in East Renfrewshire.
"This is an important addition to the specialist support available for women and girls who have experienced rape, sexual assault or sexual abuse.
"Whether the sexual violence happened to you recently or at any time in your past, the service will listen without judgement and provide the help women and girls need."
Claudia Macdonald, Director at Rape Crisis Glasgow & Clyde, said: "It is so important that women and girls in the Barrhead and surrounding area have locally-based options for support.
"We know it can be difficult to make that first step to come to us for help. With this drop-in service, we are hoping to take some of that difficulty away from any woman or girl who has experienced rape or sexual violence."
Women and girls should ask for Gabriella at reception at both venues, where staff will make sure they are discreetly linked up with support staff.
Women can also call the free confidential Glasgow and Clyde Rape Crisis Live Helpline on Freephone: 08088 00 00 14, available Monday to Friday, 11.00 am - 2.00 pm.
Rape Crisis National helpline provides support for all genders (age 13+) (hours 5.00pm - midnight) on 08088 01 03 02 or Text: 07537 410 027
