HEALTH chiefs have urged victims of sexual abuse and violence to come forward.

In the past eight years the number of offences recorded by south west police forces has more than doubled to almost 12,000 over the past year.

While the number of victims prepared to come forward and report their attackers has increased, it is estimated that a third of women who experience sexual abuse or rape will tell no one.

Public Health England has developed a new online programme designed to help direct health professionals working with victims towards support services.

Lara Snowdon, south west violence prevention lead for PHE, said: “The aim of the website is to provide a trusted source of information that is regularly updated, is practical and easy to use for professionals working with survivors, and for survivors and their families who are looking to access support.

“We know how daunting it can be to navigate through the health system to know how to get support and we hope this website will make that journey much easier. These services are often vital in rebuilding lives and acknowledging the long-term effects of sexual trauma.”

Claire Bloor of Somerset and Avon Rape and Sexual Abuse Service, which helped develop the Survivor Pathway toolkit, said: “We know that survivors often first disclose abuse to their GP, police and other primary care providers. The Survivor Pathway gives professionals the peace of mind and ability to respond and provide appropriate advice and signposting to specialist services for survivors.”