THE support offered to Manchester’s survivors of rape and serious sexual offences was the topic for the Attorney General this week as she visited the new-world class facilities the city has to offer
The Law Officers - Attorney General Victoria Prentis KC and Solicitor General Michael Tomlinson KC – met staff at The St Mary’s Centre, a sexual assault referral scheme.
The centre, currently based on Oxford Road, is one of the leading centres in the country for its work supporting victims of sexual crime. It offers aftercare services, both forensic and counselling based to those affected, and dedicated Independent Sexual Violence Advisors are on hand to support victims through the justice process.
Later this year, the centre will be moving to new premises in Peter Mount and The Law Officers were able to visit the centre as it takes shape.
Attorney General Victoria Prentis KC said:
The staff at the centre work closely with colleagues from the Crown Prosecution Service’s North West offices to make sure the support afforded to victims continues throughout their journey through the criminal justice system and CPS staff were on hand to meet the Law Officers too.
Solicitor General Michael Tomlinson KC added:
The Manchester visit was part of a three-day tour to the North West and Midlands by the Law Officers to look at victim support measures and to explore how law is supporting loal communities.
Dr. Michelle Carroll, Joint Clinical Director of St. Mary’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) said: