VICTIMS of rape are set to get more support in Warrington after a key charity was awarded £330,000 to continue to offer vital services.

The Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre, based in the town centre, provides counselling, advice and information to victims.

It has now awarded the charity a major contract via a joint funding stream from Cheshire Police, the NHS, Warrington Borough Council and Cheshire's crime commissioner.

John Dwyer said: "I want to put victims at the heart of policing, and this includes ensuring they get the right help and support they need from the constabulary and other agencies.

"I consulted survivors who told me how the support services they had received could be improved.

"In the unfortunate circumstance that an individual is subjected to a sexual assault or rape, I want them to rest assure that they will dealt with professionally.

"The fact that this aftercare has included an additional element which helps victims in their community, rather than having them travel to the referral centre in Manchester, is great progress."

Julie Evans, operations manager at RASASC said: "We are absolutely delighted to be awarded the contract and feel the collaboration between all of the partners ensures that all victims of sexual violence in Cheshire can have access to support.

"Our service aims to deliver a high quality accessible service that is responsive to the needs of people who have experienced sexual violence.

To contact RASASC, call 221 546.