AXIS – Independent Sexual Violence Advocacy Service
As a victim of sexual violence you may experience a wide range of emotions and reactions – some of these maybe very extreme such as fear, anger, shame and humiliation; other feelings of guilt, self-blame, numbness and helplessness are no less damaging. You do not have to cope with this alone, Axis’ Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (ISVA) team are trained to help and support you in any decisions you need to make.
They are there to ensure your safety and the safety of others who may be at risk, they can give you advice on sexual health and pregnancy, reporting to the police if you wish, gathering evidence and forensics and can also help you through the criminal justice process. ISVAs are support workers and advocates who are entirely focussed on you and enable you to access those services you may need in the aftermath of the trauma you have experienced.
Our ISVA team will treat everything in the strictest confidence and be guided by your wishes. The support provided will vary dependent on your needs and particular circumstances. What happens next is entirely your decision.
Our ISVAs are trained to work with anyone who has experienced sexual abuse but we also have ISVAs who are specially trained to work with specific groups, such as (but not limited to): Males, LGBTQ+, Gangs, Older People, Sex Workers, Children and Young People.
Confidentiality is key and your wishes will be respected throughout.
As a victim of sexual violence you may experience a wide range of emotions and reactions and be unsure or uncertain where to turn. You do not have to cope with this alone Axis has counsellors and independent sexual violence advisors who are trained to help and support you in any decisions you need to make.
They are also there to ensure your safety and the safety of others who may be at risk. Axis has safeguarding policies and obligations if you, someone else or a child is a serious risk of harm, this will be explained this from the outset.
No. AXIS Services are there to help you cope and, as far as possible, recover after a crime. Access to support is free, even if the crime hasn’t been reported to the police.
We have Male and Female ISVAs to enable a choice of the gender of the worker.
All our ISVA’S are trained and accredited Independent Sexual Violence Advisors; or hold a Postgraduate Certificate in Advocacy for victims of sexual violence.
