'The need for our services has never been greater' says Warwick charity

The head of a Warwick-based charity has said that the need for their services 'has never been greater'.

Safeline, which helps and supports those affected by sexual abuse and rape, is launching its ‘Light a Light for Safeline’ appeal for December.

It is a virtual campaign where supporters can 'light a light on the lake' with a donation for Safeline.

Like many charities, Safeline has been hit by the pandemic and is appealing for the public's support so it can continue to help people.

Neil Henderson, CEO of Safeline has said that Covid has had a huge impact on the charity and that their services are still needed.

Neil, said: "Covid has decimated Safeline’s income from planned fundraising events that have had to be cancelled.

"Donations from individuals and organisations have reduced as people cope with reduced incomes and job losses.

"In normal circumstances, this would create real challenges in the ability of the charity to maintain specialist support for at risk children throughout Warwickshire, however, because of Covid, demand for support has rocketed and we desperately need the support of the public to help meet that demand.

"The need for our services has never been greater.

"During the pandemic, many children found themselves confined to their homes with people who threatened both their emotional and physical health.

"Schools reopened and we are now witnessing the full impact lock down has had on the safety of our children.

"Since October, we have seen a 50 per cent increase in child sexual abuse cases, referred to our Independent Sexual Violence Advisors.

"The impact of the abuse is devastating; most cases involved rape with the children’s ages ranging between four to 17 years.

"The majority of perpetrators were close acquaintances.

"Children now account for 48 per cent of all cases referred to Safeline’s ISVA service - an increase of 20 per cent points compared to October last year.

"We believe this is the tip of the iceberg and we expect an even greater spike in cases early 2021.

"Demand for our Prevention and Early intervention services has also increased dramatically since schools returned and more children are being identified as needing one to one specialist support and Safeline is providing that.

"However, for the first time ever, these services now have a waiting list and we need help to eradicate this as the children being referred need support now.

"This fundraising initiative is critical to generating financial support to protect and support children throughout Warwickshire."

To place a candle on the lake for Safeline's 'light a light' campaign go to: https://visufund.com/safeline-light-the-wayTo make a donations go to: https://bit.ly/SafelineUK