I am absolutely thrilled that we will be partnering with Survive as our charity beneficiary for Roses 2023. Survive are an incredible organisation who do invaluable work supporting survivors of sexual violence to reclaim their power and their lives. Tackling sexual violence is something I am extremely passionate about, and as York Sport Union President I want to raise awareness particularly about the prevalance of this within sports. Working together, we hope that Roses 2023 will serve as just the beginning of really important conversations and begin paving the way to a safer environment for all within the sporting community.

We are absolutely thrilled to have been chosen as charity partner for the 2023 Roses Tournament. Survives mission is to help adult survivors of rape, sexual assault and child sexual abuse, rebuild their lives, relationships and reach their potential by delivering free, specialist, trauma-informed services. Last year, we helped 668 survivors in York, North Yorkshire and the East Ridings of Yorkshire. Sadly, a significant number of those we help aged 18-25 years in York are students sometimes because of things that have happened to them recently and sometimes because of things they were subjected to as children. This means it is highly likely that those participating in the Roses tournament will know someone who has been raped or sexually assaulted, it is just that they have not been told about it, such is the shame and stigma attached to this crime. By choosing Survive as a charity partner, students are helping us to help fellow students. Regrettably the unprecedented demand for our services in recent years shows no signs of slowing down. It costs approximately £600 to support a survivor. The Cost of Living crisis means our costs are going up whilst donations are going down which is why we are so grateful to York Sport Union for choosing us as charity partner.