Dorset's new ARC offers shelter to victims of sexual assault

ARC Dorset opened this month, offering crisis support, counselling referral, health and welfare, information, police and forensics advice to anyone who is a victim of sexual assault.

Self-referrals just need to dial 0845 519 8638 to make an appointment.

There is no pressure to report assaults to the police, ARC Dorset simply gives you the necessary information so that you can make an informed choice whether or not to do so.

ARC Dorset forms a link between various victim support organisations that already exist in the county. The new umbrella aims to make life easier by providing a single point of contact for all services.

Detective Superintendent Sara Glen has been part of the partnership team integral to creating ARC Dorset. She said: "Dorset is a very safe county but those who do fall victim to rape and sexual assault deserve the highest quality of care possible from their multi-agency service providers. This is what ARC Dorset aims to provide."