INDEPENDENT SEXUAL VIOLENCE ADVOCATES
Our ISVA team provides specialist support to women and girls (aged 13+) who have experienced rape or childhood sexual abuse. We support those considering reporting to the police or currently navigating the criminal justice system.
Area of operation
Our ISVA team works with survivors who live, work, or study in South London,or where the incident took place in South London.
You can report a sexual offence at any time after the event
– there is no time limit. Our support includes:
—
Working together to reduce anxiety through empathy and understanding
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Understand, process, and navigate your feelings with care and support
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Providing clear information about the police and court process
No confusion,
less fear
The criminal justice system can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Whether you're considering reporting or have already done so, our ISVAs will help you understand your options, explain what happens next, and ensure you feel informed and supported.
How an ISVA can help:
✔ We can accompany you to police stations, medical appointments and Crown Prosecution Service meetings
✔ We can give a thorough overview of a trial, including multiple live court visits and supporting you at court during the trial itself
✔ We can offer ‘Grounding Sessions’ in conjunction with our Counselling department to help you deal with panic attacks, flashbacks and other symptoms of stress
✔ We can signpost to specialist counselling
✔ We will always treat you with respect, honesty, and care
✔ We can give clear explanations of legal terms, proceedings, police protocols and your rights
✔ We provide practical, factual and emotional support during your involvement with the criminal justice system
✔ We explain the process from ‘report to court’ and provide you with honest choices so you can make informed decisions
Is there a cost?
Our service is free of charge.
Our offices are women-only, anonymous and close to the centre of Croydon, offering a safe and comfortable environment for you to feel believed, supported and be yourself. You and your recovery are our only priority.
Above all else, you need to know that what happened to you was not your fault, should never have happened, and should not cause you to feel ashamed. You deserve the very best possible help and support.
HELP —
STARTS HERE
To access our range of support services, please visit the London Survivors Gateway to first register your case. After registration you can be referred to us for one-to-one support as well as access further information and resources that may be beneficial to you.
Register your case and access support through the
London Survivors Gateway Hub.
Online
Speak to someone directly by calling 0808 801 0860 for guidance and support.
Telephone
Telephone opening hours
Monday: 9am–5pm
Tuesday: 9am–7pm
Wednesday: 9:30am–3:30pm
Thursday: 9am–7pm
Friday: 9am–3pm
What if I live outside
South London?
If you're outside South London, you can find your nearest Rape Crisis ISVA through Rape Crisis England and Wales.
If you're in Scotland, visit Rape Crisis Scotland for further support
