UK sexual violence support services face funding challenges and demand

Support services for survivors of sexual violence are facing varying levels of funding and demand across the United Kingdom.

In Scotland, the Scottish Rape Crisis Alliance has warned that waiting lists for emotional, therapeutic, and advocacy support could grow significantly by April 2028 without increased funding. The alliance is requesting an additional £875,000 from the Scottish Government to address rising demand. Recent figures indicate that police recorded 16,430 sexual crimes during 2025-26, the highest number since comparable records began in 1971. Rape and attempted rape offences have increased by 11% over the past year.

In England and Wales, the Ministry of Justice has awarded £8.7 million to Rape Crisis England & Wales. This funding is intended to maintain the national 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line, which provides confidential, trauma-informed assistance to survivors aged 16 and older. Since its launch in 2022, the helpline has handled over 200,000 calls and 75,000 webchats.