Boris Johnson in talks with Ealing council to find funding options

The Greater London Authority (GLA) has agreed to provide £375,000 over the next three years to open a new rape crisis centre in west London.

Working together with Mayor of London Boris Johnson, Ealing council is looking at possible funding options for the centre and is currently in talks with surrounding boroughs.

Under the proposals the new centre would provide counselling for victims of rape and sexual assault as well as victims of domestic violence. Rape perpetrated by a partner accounts for almost a quarter of all reported rapes.

The plans are part of new proposals announced by Mayor of London to double the number of rape crisis centres in the capital. He said, "For far too long some of the most vulnerable Londoners have suffered from appalling under-funding of rape crisis support in the capital. It is staggering that there was just one rape crisis centre for a city of seven million people.

"Today we are taking the first steps to redress that injustice. I am delighted to be able to announce how we will use new funds to open a brand new rape crisis centre in West London."

Ealing Council Leader, Councillor Jason Stacey, said, “Providing the proper support for victims of rape and domestic violence is very important to us and we have been very keen to expand the provision of services to help victims in Ealing and across west London.”

RASAC provide support for all victims of rape and sexual violence including many survivors of childhood abuse. The Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre Freephone Helpline is 0808 802 9999. This line is open from 12 - 2.30 and 7 - 9.30pm every day of the year.

August 4, 2009