With recent worldwide media highlighting the prevalence of sexual violence from Hollywood to Westminster, the Safer Cornwall partnership is urging people to break the silence locally.

The partnership has been holding a number of public events across Cornwall during Sexual Violence Awareness Week this week (February 5 to 11).

Organisers said it is estimated that 2.7% of women and 0.7% of men experienced some kind of sexual assault in the last 12 months – equivalent to approximately 5,000 victims in Cornwall and Isles of Scilly, 1,000 men and 4,000 women. It is estimated that 1 in 20 children are victims of contact sexual abuse (around 2,300 young people in Cornwall).

Safer Cornwall partners, SARC (Sexual Abuse Referral Centres) and ISVA (Independent Sexual Violence Advisors) services, will be providing information to the public on the range of services they offer and how they can support individuals who may know of someone who has experienced sexual violence, or have experienced it themselves.

Sue James, Cornwall councillor portfolio holder for environment and public protection, said: ‘As a community we all need to be aware of sexual abuse and sexual violence so we can be sensitive to the voice of victims and ensure they are listened to and heard. We must challenge the culture that keeps victims silent within our community.

‘Those that abuse can make victims feel it’s their fault or make them fearful of speaking out.

‘Sexual abuse and sexual violence is massively under-reported in Cornwall and when people find the courage to speak out, the abuse is not always recognised or condemned as it should be.

‘This week is about sending a clear message that sexual violence is never OK. Help and support services are there for anyone needing them so there is no need to struggle with the hurt alone.’

To report an incident of sexual violence or raise a concern, please contact the Sexual Abuse Referral Centre (SARC) on 01872 272059 who can provide support, guidance and referrals.

For more information on Sexual Violence please visit www.safercornwall.co.uk.

The Safer Cornwall Partnership includes Cornwall Council, Devon and Cornwall Police, Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service, National Probation Service, Dorset, Devon and Cornwall Community Rehabilitation Company and NHS Kernow as well as a wide range of other public sector, voluntary, community and private organisations.