A lifeline service for victims of domestic and sexual violence is facing cutbacks, bosses have warned.
The Perth and Kinross Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre (RASAC) was set up 10 years ago to offer support to mainly, women and young people affected by rape, abuse and exploitation.
The group has now revealed it is struggling to secure funding for the new year, amid a forecast 25% increase in demand.
Development manager Jen Stewart said without funding in place, services were at risk.
The group’s money worries came to light as it unveiled its latest annual report, revealing a 15% increase in overall referrals.
The annual study shows how abuse can affect survivors, with more than 65% saying they were left feeling anxiety, depression, nightmares and flashbacks.
The vast majority of incidents happened in the survivor’s home and involved someone known to the victim.
Ms Stewart said: “As we enter this next year, we remain committed to delivering these vital services.
“We do so in a time of financial uncertainty for the organisation, as some existing funding streams approach the end of their term.”
She said: “We are actively seeking funding which will enable us to sustain the level of service provision for survivors and their families. We are already anticipating a 25% increase in demand across 2017/18. Should we be unable to secure replacement funding our services are at risk of being cut.”
The report also reveals that more than half (50.5%) of abuse cases are not reported to the police.
Ms Stewart thanked the Scottish Government for its continued support through its Equally Safe Strategy.
Local MSP John Swinney praised the service’s work. “The Scottish Government has continued to invest significant levels of funding in front line services supporting victims and survivors of domestic abuse and sexual violence, with an extra £11.8 million investment to support efforts to tackle violence against women and provide support for victims announced in June 2017,” he said.
“It is crucial that services, such as those provided by RASAC, remain in place for people who need them. I hope that this organisation will continue to be able to provide its valuable services to women and young people across Perth and Kinross for as long as they are required.”
