VICTIMS of sexual crimes around North Yorkshire can now turn to a new centre for help and support.

The county’s first Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC), at Bridge House, provides support for victims in a homely environment, rather than at a police station, so victims feel less intimidated and more comfortable coming forward.

Sarah Murphy, manager of the £250,000 centre, said: “If the victim is unsure thether they want to report their experience to the police or not, they can ring the helpline 24/7, leave a message, and we will return their calls.

“We can make an appointment for them, and discuss their options, including what happens if they report to the police, and what that process is.

“If the forensic window is still there, we can arrange for a medical examination to be done here as well. That means we can secure evidence here at the centre, ready for if they decide to report it to the police.”

Staff at the centre will help victims through their ordeal, and explain their options to them, putting them in touch with support networks or police.

They will offer impartial advice, and will not insist the crime is reported to police.

Det Insp Karen Warner said: “This is all about giving victims some control or choice. It’s not for us to say they should or shouldn’t report to police, but to explain their options.

“Victims can still and should still pick up the phone if they want to report a crime to police. Self-referring is an option, but shouldn’t be an alternative for phoning 999 to report a crime.”

Det Chief Supt Simon Mason, head of crime, called the centre a “major milestone for North Yorkshire”, and said additional funding would be requested from the NHS in the future. Statistics from similar facilities around the country showed the region could expect to see a rise in reported sexual assaults.

Chief Supt Mason said: “They fall into two categories. Either there’s an increase in reporting and detections as a result of the SARC, or a hike in reporting but the detection rate has gone down, as people exercise their right and choice not to go forward with police.

“We are not chasing detections, they will come in due course. This is a victim-based service, and if more people come and report, we’re comfortable with that.”

•Victims of sexual crime can find out more information at turntobridgehouse.org or by phoning Bridge House on 01904 669339. If you are in immediate danger you must always phone 999.