History
Our roots are in the feminist rape crisis movement that emerged in 2008 in response to violence against women and girls.
Our roots are as a feminist, women-led organisation that started in 2008 as Bristol Rape Crisis.
We started with 2 women, one phone, and a handful of amazing volunteers. From there on we worked tirelessly to continue to grow and develop to support as many people affected by sexual violence as possible.
We grew to cover the whole of Avon and Somerset
In 2013 we received funding to offer support to people across Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol, North Somerset, Somerset, or South Gloucestershire. The staff team grew and we started providing much needed counselling services.
Going from strength to strength
We now have nearly 50 members of staff and 30 volunteers. We run new, innovative support services, and national projects, alongside our original helpline that has provided a lifeline for victim-survivors since 2008. We became proudly trans-inclusive and continue to work on our equality, diversity, and inclusion to ensure that no one is left behind.
In this section
The latest from our news and blogs
Shame must change sides
In four words, Gisèle Pelicot articulated what all women around the world need to hear. I want to explore the experience of shame as a victim of rape, because sometimes it’s just not as easy as “I shouldn’t be ashamed, so I won’t be”.
Rape Culture: not just a buzzword
A university student, who experienced sexual violence during the first month of enrolling, reflects on the aftermath and the pervasive nature of rape culture on campus and within wider society.
The impact of trauma on pregnancy, birth & parenthood
Becoming a parent is a life-changing experience, and for many, it can also be a challenging one. If you’ve experienced rape or sexual abuse, the past trauma can feel like a heavy weight, influencing your experiences throughout pregnancy, birth, and the early stages of parenthood.
