Cumbria Constabulary and the county’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Peter McCall, have highlighted the services available to victims of rape and sexual offences.

This comes as part of the ongoing November rape and serious sexual offences awareness campaign.

In the Barrow, The Birchall Trust and Women’s Community Matters were both listed as available services in the area.

The Birchall Trust offers one-to-one counselling, play and art therapy as well as Protective Behaviours Workshop to survivors of rape and sexual abuse.

The service is open 9am-5pm Monday to Friday and can be contacted on 01229 820828 and enquiries@birchalltrust.org.uk.

Women’s Community Matters, Barrow, can help with issues like domestic and sexual abuse, benefits and housing issues and mental wellbeing and can also provide information on other services that can help.

They are open Monday 9.30am – 4pm, Tuesday 9.30am – 6pm, Wednesday 9.30am – 4pm, Thursday 9.30am – 6pm, Friday 9.30am – 1pm and can be reached on 01229 311102.

Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Peter McCall, said: ““We are raising awareness of these services as part of our month-long Rape and Serious Sexual Assault campaign in partnership with Cumbria Constabulary.

“I would always urge anyone who experiences this type of crime to report to the Police but, for some it is difficult and I know that not everyone wants to report it which is why I commission these services in Cumbria.

“Rape and Sexual Assault can have a lasting effect on those who experience it and they need as much support as they can legally, mentally and physically.

“With support, we hope that survivors can overcome and recover from their trauma and live a positive life.

“If you have experienced rape or sexual assault please reach out to one of the services above for advice tailored to you.”