New service for child victims of sexual violence is the first of its kind in Northern Ireland

Children in Northern Ireland who have been victims of sexual violence will soon be able to get specialised support during the criminal justice process, thanks to funding for a new advocacy service.

Victim Support NI, the leading organisation supporting victims of crime in Northern Ireland, has been awarded £117,750 in funding from BBC Children In Need to establish two Child Independent Sexual Violence Advocates, or ChISVAs. This will be the first time in the history of Northern Ireland that support of this kind exists for child victims of rape and sexual violence.

The ChISVAs will provide independent advocacy and support, helping young people to navigate their way through the legal process, as well as enabling their voice to be prioritised and heard throughout the proceedings. They will also work with them to build their confidence and self-esteem, whilst improving their emotional and psychological health.

Janice Bunting, Deputy Chief Executive said, “We’re so pleased to find out that we’ve been awarded this grant from BBC Children in Need which will enable us to support vulnerable children and young people who have been affected by sexual violence for the next three years. Thank you to everyone that has made this possible.”

The funding will be utilised over three years. The new ChISVAs will join two ISVAs already based in Victim Support NI, who work with adults affected by sexual violence.