A MAJOR cash grant has been awarded to a Colchester charity which supports people affected by forms of sexual violence.

The Centre for Action on Rape and Abuse (CARA) has received £20,000 to fund counselling and play therapy for more than 50 children and young people in the county. 

For more than three decades, CARA – which was originally founded as Colchester Rape Crisis Line – has worked to support survivors of sexual abuse by offering counselling and practical support to victims.

The money came from the Essex Violence and Vulnerability Unit (VVU) as part of its Community Grant Scheme (VVUCGS) which annually supports community resources for young people. 

Helen Parr, chief executive officer, CARA, said: “The Essex Violence and Vulnerability Unit grant was a major factor in helping young people envision a better life for themselves.   

“Thanks to the VVU grant, we were able to provide more counselling to victims of sexual violence and to help support children and their families to process and understand what has happened.  

“We see dramatic differences in the young people, they become more confident, report feeling more able to take back power and control and let go of feelings of shame and self-blame – recognising that what happened to them wasn’t their fault.” 

CARA is specifically supporting victims and survivors of sexual violence and child sexual abuse all over Essex through its outreach premises in Braintree, Clacton, Harwich, Chelmsford and Great Dunmow. 

Part of CARA’s Colchester building has a designated women-only space and offers a women-only referral pathway. 

Roger Hirst, chair of the Violence and Vulnerability Partnership and Police Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex thanked CARA for supporting young people throughout the county 

Mr Hirst said: “We must never underestimate the fantastic work being delivered by local organisations in communities right across the county.  

Impact - Roger Hirst has acknowledged the importance of CARA's work in EssexImpact - Roger Hirst has acknowledged the importance of CARA's work in Essex

“The projects, embedded in their local area, understand the needs of the young people they are working with, and can provide the support needed to address risk factors such as violence, lack of engagement in education, isolation and poor mental health.  

“So many young people have been helped thanks to the 23/24 VVUCGS and I encourage organisations to apply for next year’s grant and continue this great work.”