“Rape and sexual assault are horrendous crimes which can have a long-lasting and devastating impact on its victims.

“Since the Scottish Government came to power in 2007, overall crime in South Lanarkshire is at a 10-year low, falling by 36 per cent, but sadly sexual crimes continue to take place.

“Due to the great work by organisations like Women’s Aid South Lanarkshire and Lanarkshire Rape Crisis Centre, more women are feeling supported and empowered to report their crimes to the police and are seeking the advice of third sector bodies.

“I understand that Lanarkshire Rape Crisis Centre is having difficulties financially, and also in finding volunteers to staff their helpline, so I’d encourage anyone to contact them if they could possibly assist. Their work is invaluable to my constituents in Rutherglen and Cambuslang, and I hope they can work with stakeholders, including the government, to take a long-term approach to protect their vital services.

“In the meantime, Rape Crisis Scotland’s national helpline is available from 6pm to midnight on 08088 01 03 02.”

ENDS

Date published: 4th September 2018