Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Rape Crisis is a feminist organisation that exists to promote the needs and rights of women and girls who have experienced sexual violence, to improve services to them and to work towards the elimination of sexual violence.

The branch of Rape Crisis I am hoping to raise money for provides these vital services to women and girls over the age of 13 who live, work or study in Tyneside and Northumberland. 

They are completely independent of the criminal justice system including the police and provide free, confidential support, information and counselling to women and girls who have experienced sexual violence.

Approximately 85,000 women are raped every year, with 1 in 5 women aged 16 – 59 experiencing some form of sexual violence since the age of 16. Unfortunately, only around 15% of those who experience sexual violence choose to report to the police. This is likely due, in part, to the fact that conviction rates for rape are far lower than other crimes, with only 5.7% of reported rape cases ending in a conviction for the perpetrator.

I believe that the emphasis on current movements such as #metoo and Time’s Up has empowered many women and girls to feel more able to speak up about their experiences, and has encouraged us, as a society, to listen. It is therefore crucial that services such as Rape Crisis receive the funding they need to be able to provide the support that is so desperately needed for victims who come forward.

Anything you feel you can donate will be gratefully received and I promise to provide photographic evidence of me literally walking over hot coals in return for your kindness.

Thanks in advance!