SARSVL Launch

On 15th March 2010 LAST attended the launch of the Support After Rape and Sexual Violence Leeds (SARSVL) to show our support for their work in the community. The event was held at the Seven Arts centre in Chapel Allerton and was well attended by both front line providers, such as Leeds Woman’s Aid and Sahara Black Women’s Refuge, and the general public. In addition to heightening the profile of their new support line, SARSVL also aimed to raise funds for their ongoing work; so it was excellent to hear that over £900 was raised that evening. The event included a variety of musical entertainment such as local Leeds band, Madam Laycock & Her Dabeno Pleasures.

SARSVL was brought about in 2009 by a group of volunteers who felt compelled to create change after the End Violence Against Women campaign and the Equality & Human Rights Commission published their report on gaps in services for women who had experienced sexual violence. Leeds has not had a support line for such women for over 7 years and so the creation of SARSVL has filled a much needed gap in service provision. SARSVL seek to compliment and work in partnership with front line services that already exist in Leeds and to you’ll find a link to their website on our Links page.

The confidential Helpline is staffed between 6 - 8 pm on Mondays, Wednesday, Thursday and Fridays and can be reached on 0113 202 1844.

SARSVL are currently recruiting for volunteers and an application pack can be requested from info.sarsvl@googlemail.com