Devon Rape Crisis & Sexual Abuse Services takes stand during Sexual Violence Awareness Week

With Sexual Violence Awareness Week starting today (Monday, February 5) Devon Rape Crisis & Sexual Abuse Services has taken a stand against the alarming surge of sexual violence across the county.

Sexual Violence Awareness Week runs until February 11 and is designed to encourage vital conversations around consent, healthy relationships and bystander intervention; all of which are essential tools in preventing sexual violence before it occurs.
Beyond prevention, the week seeks to challenge harmful attitudes and behaviors deeply rooted in rape culture, fostering a culture of consent and dismantling victim-blaming mentalities.

The service has pledged to raise awareness, provide unwavering support and advocate passionately for survivors of sexual violence in Devon.
It strives to illuminate the prevalence of sexual violence, showing the need for prevention strategies, robust support services and broader societal change.
Devon, as with many regions, has grappled with the impact of sexual violence. Recent statistics reveal an alarming 15. Per cent surge in reported cases compared to the previous year.

For women, the estimated prevalence of sexual assault within the last year stands at 3.3 per cent, while for men, it is 1.2 per cent. Showing a gendered nature of these crimes, 86 per cent of survivors or victims of sexual offences are women.

Applying these rates to Devon suggests that approximately 11,700 women and 4,000 men have experienced sexual assault in the past year alone.

Dr Davina Cull, CEO of Devon Rape Crisis & Sexual Abuse Services, highlighted the collective responsibility needed for addressing sexual violence. She said: "Sexual Violence Awareness Week is a reminder that we all play a role in creating a safer, more supportive community.

“By coming together to raise awareness, challenge stigma, and support survivors, we can work towards a future free from sexual violence."

To mobilise widespread support, the organisation has encouraged individuals and other businesses alike to employ the hashtag #ITSNOTOK.