Sexual Violence Support Service in Devon and Cornwall Honoured with National Award

The Devon & Cornwall Independent Sexual Violence Advisor Service (ISVA), established by the charity First Light, has been recognised on a national stage for its outstanding support to survivors of sexual violence. The service, which began in 2018, was named runner-up in the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion category at the Skills for Justice – Inspire Justice Awards.

Thousands Supported Across the Counties

Since its inception, the Devon & Cornwall ISVA service has supported over 7,700 children and adults affected by sexual violence. Funded by the Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner, the service has made significant strides in reaching out to marginalised communities, including male victims, individuals from black and minority ethnic backgrounds, sex workers, and members of the LGBTQ+ community, who have historically been less likely to seek help.

One service user shared their experience, saying, “I’ve carried this for nearly 5 months, trying to work out what to do, and decide how to proceed. I simply don’t have the right words to explain what it’s meant to me. The phrase ‘a weight was lifted’ doesn’t come close.”

Another expressed gratitude for the unwavering support received, stating, “[My] ISVA was always a constant source of support, they were always there and helped me through the long periods of either no contact or delayed responses from the police. They came with me to court and never left my side for the two days I was giving evidence.”

Recognition at National Awards Ceremony

Tom Godwin, Head of Development at First Light, accepted the award on behalf of the service at a ceremony in London. Speaking at the event, Tom said, “It’s a fantastic recognition of the work that happens day in, day out, working with survivors and victims of sexual assault. We work tirelessly to advocate for victims, giving them the support they need, stewarding them through the criminal justice system and holding their hands at some of the most difficult times in their lives.”

The Inspire Justice Awards is the UK’s only awards programme dedicated to recognising the achievements of the entire justice sector. Organised by Skills for Justice, this year’s event was supported by organisations including BT, PeoplePlus, UNISON, and the Midlands Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust.

About Skills for Justice and the Inspire Justice Awards

Skills for Justice is a not-for-profit organisation committed to the development of a sustainable workforce across the UK’s Justice, Fire and Rescue, Local Government, and Armed Forces sectors. Established in 2004, it focuses on improving service delivery and informing policy and industry standards across the sectors it supports.

The Inspire Justice Awards celebrate the essential contributions of the wider justice workforce. Now in their third year, the awards have expanded to include three new categories, reflecting the breadth and depth of the justice sector’s impact.

For more information on the Devon & Cornwall ISVA service and how to access support, visit First Light.