Business Details
36 Years
experience
Specialist Sexual Violence Support Services
RSACC is a feminist, women-led charity dedicated to ending rape and sexual violence through survivor support and empowerment. Established in 1990, we are the only specialist sexual violence service in County Durham and Darlington, offering free, confidential counselling, telephone support, email services, Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (ISVA) assistance, and trauma-informed group sessions. Our work is rooted in intersectional feminism, prioritising survivor agency and addressing systemic gender inequality.With over 30 years of experience, we combine specialist knowledge with a person-centred approach to support survivors of all genders. As part of the national Rape Crisis England and Wales network, we maintain rigorous professional standards while advocating for systemic change to prevent sexual violence.
Services
Counselling
ISVA Support
Emotional Support Line
Trauma-Informed Groups
Recovery Toolkits
Bystander Training
Child Sexual Abuse Support
Details
- Year established: 1990
Highlights and features
- We have 30+ years of specialist experience supporting sexual violence survivors
- Our feminist, person-centred approach prioritises survivor agency and empowerment
- We offer a comprehensive range of services including ISVA support and trauma-informed groups
- As part of the national Rape Crisis network, we maintain the highest professional standards
- All services are free, confidential and accessible to survivors of all genders
Associations and certifications
- BACP Membership No: 117049
What people say
Empowering experience
Compassionate support
Effective counselling
Safe environment
Life-changing impact
Services
Counselling
Our specialist counselling provides a safe space for survivors to process trauma and develop coping strategies. Delivered by trained professionals, sessions focus on rebuilding self-esteem and restoring emotional wellbeing through trauma-informed techniques. Available free to survivors of all genders in Darlington and County Durham.
ISVA Support
Independent Sexual Violence Advisors offer practical and emotional support to survivors considering police reporting. Our trained specialists explain legal processes, accompany clients to appointments, and coordinate with relevant agencies while maintaining strict confidentiality and survivor autonomy throughout the process.
Emotional Support Line
Confidential telephone support available for immediate assistance with crisis management and emotional distress. Our trained staff provide non-judgmental listening, practical advice, and signposting to appropriate services during opening hours for survivors in our service area.
Trauma-Informed Groups
Facilitated group sessions create safe spaces for shared experiences and collective healing. These trauma-informed programmes use evidence-based practices to help participants develop coping mechanisms and build supportive networks while maintaining individual privacy and emotional safety.
Bystander Training
Interactive workshops educate participants about identifying and safely intervening in potential sexual violence situations. Designed for professionals and community members, this training promotes cultural change through understanding personal boundaries and appropriate intervention techniques.
People
Isabel Owens
Senior Manager
With seven years' experience leading service development in the voluntary sector, Isabel ensures our support services meet survivors' evolving needs while maintaining organisational effectiveness.
Jacqui Heward-Hill
Training Facilitator
Jacqui develops and delivers our CPD-accredited training programmes, combining her education background with frontline experience to create impactful learning experiences for professionals across multiple sectors.
Victoria Matthewson
Funding Specialist
With 16 years in non-profit funding roles, Victoria secures essential resources to maintain and expand our free support services for sexual violence survivors in the region.
Alex Carruthers
Counselling Manager
A former volunteer counsellor, Alex has managed our specialist counselling service for seven years, ensuring high-quality therapeutic support for survivors through continuous service improvement.
Jamie Allinson
ISVA Team Manager
With legal expertise and seven years' experience in sexual violence support, Jamie oversees our Independent Sexual Violence Advisor service, providing critical guidance through complex legal processes for survivors.
Questions
What services does RSACC offer for sexual violence survivors?
We provide free counselling, ISVA support, trauma-informed groups, emotional support via telephone/email, recovery toolkits, and specialist training for professionals across Darlington and County Durham.
How can I access RSACC's support services?
Access support through our online referral forms (organisation or self-referral), Emotional Support Line, or email service. All our services are free and confidential for survivors.
Does RSACC support male survivors of sexual violence?
Yes, we support survivors of all genders, including men and boys who have experienced rape or sexual violence, through our specialist services tailored to individual needs.
How is RSACC funded?
We rely on donations, fundraising, and grants to provide free services. Training course profits also support our operations, ensuring accessibility for all survivors regardless of financial circumstances.
Can I volunteer with RSACC?
Yes, volunteers are vital to our operations. We offer opportunities in support services, administration, and fundraising, with comprehensive training provided for all volunteer roles.
What training options are available through RSACC?
We offer CPD-accredited half-day courses on sexual violence awareness, domestic abuse, disclosure response, bystander intervention, and child sexual abuse, delivered online or in person.
