Bournemouth, Health & Lifestyle, Poole | Posted on February 3rd, 2026 | return to news

Support for sexual violence survivors in Bournemouth and Poole

To mark Sexual Violence Awareness Week, Safer BCP is holding events and giving support across the region.

Sexual Violence Awareness Week runs until Sunday 8 February, with Safer BCP holding events across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole to support survivors.

It wants to spread the message that it’s not OK that one in four women, one in 18 men, and one in six children experience sexual violence in the UK, with sexual violence against men significantly underreported. Many male survivors feel invisible or unsupported, creating barriers to seeking help. Safer BCP aims to change this by making services more visible, accessible and easier to navigate.

Throughout the week, Safer BCP will highlight local support services, encourage people to seek help safely and confidentially, and provide learning opportunities for professionals. Activities include an online campaign, specialist training and a dedicated support event for male survivors.

Cllr Kieron Wilson, portfolio holder for Community Safety and vice-chairperson of Safer BCP, said: “Everyone deserves safety, dignity and support. If you have been affected by sexual violence, help is available locally. By working with partners and raising awareness, we can break down stigma and make sure survivors are not alone.”

Chief Superintendent Julie Howe, chairperson of Safer BCP, said: “We are committed to working with our partners to ensure we are here for anyone who has been the victim of sexual violence.

“We want to empower victims to feel they can report offences and seek support, in the knowledge they will be treated with respect and dignity, and we will do all we can to bring perpetrators to justice.”

A key event during the week is the Support for Male Survivors drop-in on Saturday 7 February, from 1.30pm to 3.30pm, in a private space at Bournemouth Library. This session brings together organisations including BCHA and Victim Support.

Safer BCP is also offering online training for staff and partners on understanding trauma, recognising abuse carried out online or through digital devices, and safely supporting someone who needs help.

These events form part of Safer BCP’s wider commitment to preventing sexual violence and supporting survivors. Building on the #JustDon’t campaign and the 16 Days of Activism, this work continues to challenge harmful behaviours and promote safer communities. More mixed-audience events are planned later this year.

If you have been affected by sexual violence, help is available. Visit saferbcp.co.uk/resources. Prevention tools and campaign materials are available here: https://www.saferbcp.co.uk/