Plea To Report Sexual Violence Amid Pandemic Concerns

Jersey's Chief of Police is appealing for sexual abuse victims to report it, amid concerns that the coronavirus pandemic stopped many people from coming forward.

The number of recorded sexual offences has reduced over the last five years.

Numbers climbed to above 200 in 2019 but fell sharply to 134 in 2020 when the coronavirus pandemic hit.

Jersey Police says it's certain that the problem 'didn't simply disappear' and that many incidents in 2020 would have simply have not been reported.

The number of recorded incidents went up to 167 last year.

To mark Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week, Robin Smith says they take all reports seriously, no matter how long ago the abuse happened.

"We want to reassure those people who have suffered sexual abuse or violence, who may have doubts about coming forward that my officers and staff will support you in reporting these crimes.

We want to ensure the voice of victims is heard, and know that you will be believed.

This week is about taking a stand against this type of abusive behaviour and saying it’s not OK.

Our Justice system will only work when it delivers justice to both the victim and the offender. We are here to help."

There were 1149 recorded domestic abuse incidents in 2021, with 239 people arrested and 83 charged with an offence.

Dewberry House is one of several agencies in place to support victims of sexual abuse.

Service manager Laura Osmand says she echoes the police message for people who've been sexually assaulted to come forward and seek help.

"Dewberry House is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for all victims, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, ability or sexual orientation, who have experienced sexual assault, whether recently or in the past.

Our team understand the impact sexual assault can have on the lives of individuals and families. Dewberry House is there for each and every person affected and will work at their pace, with their wishes at the forefront to ensure they receive the best care possible and whatever support may be required."

The Sexual Assault Referral Centre can be contacted on 01534 888222.

Victims can call the police on 612612 or 999 in an emergency.

A taskforce is due to be created this year to improve women's safety in Jersey.

It will hear from islanders and propose what is described as 'direct and achievable action plans.'

The Home Affairs Minister said last month that 93% of victims of domestic sexual offences are female and 88% of sexual abuse victims in Jersey last year were women, as were 73% of victims of domestic abuse.

Deputy Gregory Guida said working to rehabilitate offenders of violent crimes against women will be 'a very large part of the solution'.