The closure of an organisation that helps women and girls who have been victim to sexual violence and rape has been described as "gut-wrenching".
Suffolk Rape Crisis (SRC) has helped thousands of women and girls over the last 13 years, giving them the bravery to speak out and move forward with their lives.
The organisation announced, however, that they will be closing at the end of July, as remaining funds would keep doors open until October.
Their two key contributors in funding is ending from the Government and the Police and Crime Commissioner.
Sarah Brennan, the current interim CEO of Suffolk Rape Crisis, who will oversee the closure, said: "We are all really devastated.
"We're the only service of this kind in the whole of Suffolk and there isn't a rape crisis in Norfolk, so we cover a huge area.
"We have really changed people's lives, the feedback we receive is incredible.
"It's just so devastating that our two major core funders is ending.
"We've been applying like mad to get some funding in but it's all short term.
"It's absolutely terrible. This means a lot to the people who work here, everyone is so committed and they see how much they help women so for that not to be there anymore is tough."
Suffolk Rape Crisis estimated they support 250 people a year, equating to around 3,250 people in Suffolk and Norfolk who have benefitted from their services since 2011.
Sarah continued: "Thank you to our supporters. Without them, we wouldn't have been here for 13 years.
"We also want to thank everyone who has come to us.
"We are so inspired by the women that we work with and have worked with, and how brave they are and how fantastic they have been over the years."
A Suffolk Constabulary spokesman said: “We were saddened to hear of the closure of Suffolk Rape Crisis and we thank all of the team for all their support and counselling they have provided victims.
"To reassure victims of rape or sexual assault, if you report such an incident, you will be listened to and treated with dignity, sensitivity and respect. Each investigation is tailored to the specific needs of a victim with specialist trained interviewers and other agencies supporting the investigation.
"Suffolk also has a dedicated Sexual Assault Referral Centre and a team of specialist ISVA’s (independent sexual violence advisors) who support any victims who come forward to report rape or serious sexual offences, either to police or directly to the SARC."
Last year, a billboard in Ipswich made national news after Suffolk Rape Crisis said the advert it displayed perpetuated the culture of rape.
Laura Polley is one of the organisers of Reclaim The Night Ipswich, an annual march which sees people come together to share their support with victims of sexual violence, as well as highlighting how women can regain control, visibility and voice through the power of action.
She said: "Seeing the closure of Suffolk Rape Crisis is gut-wrenching.
"Not only have the team there been an immense, and much needed support system for survivors of rape and sexual violence, they have also been staunch activists for change, particularly surrounding violence against women and girls.
"As the frontiers behind Suffolk’s Reclaim the Night march, their presence, advocacy and passion will be deeply missed.
"A special thank you to the SRC team for their ongoing support to the University of Suffolk.
"They’ve given up their time to deliver guest sessions to our Criminology and Sociology students, and collaborated on various projects with the Student Union’s Women’s Officer – Leesha Daniells.
"There will definitely be an SRC-sized gap in support services moving forward. I wish all the brilliant staff well and I hope that survivors will still be able to access support from other services. In solidarity!"
SRC is hoping the Reclaim the Night march will continue, with hopes someone else might take over to oversee it.
A statement from Future Female Society (FFS), an organisation that also supports women and girls, and have worked with SRC on a number of projects, said: "It is extremely heartbreaking to hear about the closure of Suffolk Rape Crisis, a valuable service for women and girls in Suffolk who have experienced sexual violence.
"As a crucial lifeline for many, their absence will undoubtedly create a significant gap in support services moving forward.
"At FFS, we have had the privilege of working with Suffolk Rape Crisis on numerous projects.
"We are deeply saddened by this news and extend our heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated staff who have tirelessly supported survivors.
"These amazing individuals have made a profound impact, and we wish them all the best in finding new positions.
"In response to this closure, we want to remind the community that support is still available.
"At FFS, we offer a monthly coffee morning at the New Wolsey Theatre. There is no need to book - just come along. Additionally, we run a number of projects aimed at supporting women and girls in Suffolk.
"Other organisations such as Lighthouse Women's Aid, Survivors in Transition, The Ferns, and Anglia Care Trust continue to provide vital support services. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you need assistance.
"Together, we must continue to support and uplift one another in these challenging times."
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