Step Up for Survivors

Supporting Survivors: How Cheshire & Merseyside Businesses Can Step Up and Make a Lasting Impact
In Cheshire, the need to support survivors of sexual violence has never been greater. At RASASC (Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre), we are committed to providing life-changing services to those in need. But with demand continuing to rise—especially among children and young people—we urgently need your help. That’s why we’re inviting Cheshire & Merseyside businesses to join our new campaign, Step Up for Survivors, and make a meaningful difference.
Introducing Step Up for Survivors
The Step Up for Survivors campaign is a powerful initiative designed to unite individuals, businesses, and the wider community in supporting RASASC’s mission. Through this campaign, we aim to raise £75,000 to fund one Children’s Counsellor and one CHISVA (Children and Young People’s Independent Sexual Violence Advisor).
Currently, 20% of our referrals are for children under 17, and with demand continuing to grow, we urgently need to increase our staff to keep up. These new roles will ensure that we can provide specialised, compassionate care to some of the most vulnerable members of our community.
By focusing on the theme of “steps”—both literal and metaphorical—the campaign offers a variety of ways for businesses to get involved:

• Step Challenges: Encourage your team to participate in a company-wide step challenge, raising funds with every step taken.
• Donations: Make a corporate contribution to help us reach our £75,000 target.
• Awareness Initiatives: Promote the campaign within your networks to inspire others to take action.

This campaign embodies our core values of support, compassion, and empowerment, creating opportunities for businesses to demonstrate their commitment to making a difference in the community.
Our Impact in Numbers
Behind every statistic is a survivor whose life has been touched by our services:

• 2,335 face-to-face counselling sessions delivered last quarter.
• 1,910 ISVA (Independent Sexual Violence Advocate) hours helping clients navigate the justice system.
• 95% of clients contacted within 72 hours.
• 93% feel more informed and empowered, and 91% feel more resilient and able to cope.

In the last year, we’ve supported 2,731 adults and 997 children, but with a 21% increase in new referrals, we urgently need to expand our services to meet this growing demand.
Why Your Business Should Step Up
By supporting Step Up for Survivors, your business will:

• Fund essential counselling services for children and young people who have experienced sexual violence.
• Empower survivors and their families by funding a CHISVA to guide them through the justice system and ensure they feel informed and supported.
• Create safe spaces for young survivors to process their trauma and begin their healing journey.
• Raise awareness about the importance of standing against sexual violence and supporting survivors.

Your participation will demonstrate your organisation’s commitment to the wellbeing of the community and its dedication to being a force for good.
The Difference Your Contribution Can Make
Reaching £75,000 will allow us to fund one Children’s Counsellor and one CHISVA, ensuring that more children and young people receive the support they need to heal and move forward. Whether through step challenges, direct donations, or sponsorships, your support will have a profound impact on the lives of survivors.
Take the First Step Today
We invite Cheshire & Merseyside businesses to Step Up for Survivors and join us in building a stronger, safer community. Visit rapecentre.org.uk to learn more about the campaign and how you can get involved.
Together, we can take steps—both literal and metaphorical—toward healing, empowerment, and hope for survivors. Let’s Step Up for Survivors and make a lasting impact, one step at a time.