Rape Crisis Mid-West keep survivors at the heart of their strategic plan

RAPE Crisis Mid-West have launched their new strategic plan and hope to expand their services across the region. 

The centre hopes to expand with an accompaniment service for those attending a forensic medical exam following a rape or sexual assault. 

At the moment, anyone going for a medical exam can’t do this unless they have a report to the gardaí and if they don’t feel ready to report an attack immediately, they then have to travel to a sexual assault treatment unit in Cork or Galway. 

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Rape Crisis Mid-West staff do not believe this is acceptable for people who live in Limerick, Clare or North Tipperary. 

The launch event saw Executive Director of Rape Crisis Midwest, Siobhán O’Leary, thank the staff, board, volunteers and stakeholders, including Cuan, Rape Crisis Ireland, HSE, UHL and An Garda Síochána. 

Ms O’Leary had a strong message for survivors of sexual violence: “To the survivors that access our services past, present and future. This is a service for you, by you and will be there for you when you are ready to take that step. I am blown away each and every time I speak with survivors, blown away by their strength of character, integrity and courage. 

“With this strategic plan, Rape Crisis Mid-West commits to keeping you at the centre of our services and commits to listen and hear what you are saying. Survivors will continue to be our guiding light and we will continue in our work to make sure survivors are heard, believed and find justice and healing in whatever form that may take.”

To find out more about the many services offered by Rape Crisis Mid-West or explore ways to support the charity go to rapecrisis.ie.