A NEW Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) hub is preparing to officially open next week, with partners gathering today for a special open day to showcase the specialist support it will provide for victims and survivors of sexual violence across the Dyfed-Powys area.

The hub was built using capital funding from the Welsh Government, following a successful application by Hywel Dda University Health Board, who have also overseen the development of the new facility. The services delivered from the hub are jointly funded by NHS partners, the Police and Crime Commissioner for Dyfed-Powys, and policing. It forms part of a wider partnership approach between criminal justice agencies, health services and third-sector organisations, aimed at ensuring that those affected by sexual violence receive the care, support and guidance they need.

Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn, who officially opened the new hub, said: “Ensuring that victims and survivors of sexual violence have access to the right services, at the right time, is a key priority for me as Police and Crime Commissioner. Nobody should ever feel alone after experiencing such a traumatic crime, and it is vital that specialist help is available to support people through recovery.

“One of my Police and Crime Plan priorities is to place victims and survivors at the heart of everything we do. The opening of this hub is a clear example of that commitment in action- making sure that people across the Dyfed-Powys area can access high-quality, compassionate support closer to home.

“I am proud that we have been able to provide funding towards this project, and that by working in partnership with health colleagues and specialist providers, we are improving the services available to some of the most vulnerable in our communities. The launch shows what we can achieve when we listen to victims and ensure their needs guide the way services are delivered.”

Lee Davies, Executive Director of Strategy and Planning said: “The opening of this new SARC hub in Aberystwyth represents a vital addition to the regional network of support for survivors of sexual violence. Through close collaboration with our partners in policing, advocacy, and specialist care, we are helping to ensure that individuals affected by these traumatic experiences can access services that are safe, accessible, compassionate, and tailored to their needs. The centre offers a confidential space where people can begin their journey of recovery with dignity and support, and we are gratefulto be able to contribute to a collaborative effort that brings this essential service to our region.”

Jackie Stamp, CEO of New Pathways said: “We are proud to be part of the launch of the new Sexual Assault Referral Centre hub in Aberystwyth, a vital step forward in ensuring that survivors of sexual violence across mid and west Wales have access to specialist, trauma-informed support closer to home.

At New Pathways, we have spent over three decades walking alongside survivors, and we know how important it is that services are client-led, accessible, compassionate, and tailored to individual needs. This new SARC hub will offer a safe and welcoming space for anyone affected by sexual violence, regardless of when the abuse occurred, and will provide access to crisis support, forensic medical services, advocacy through the criminal justice process and specialised counselling.

We are pleased to be working in partnership with the Dyfed Powys Police and Crime Commissioner, the Police, Hywel Dda University Health Board and other key agencies through the Wales Sexual Assault Services Programme. Together, we are committed to ensuring that survivors are heard, believed, and supported every step of the way. “

Chief Constable Ifan Charles said:“Supporting survivors of sexual assault and abuse is a key priority. SARCs are a safe place, that provide free, specialist care and support to anyone who has been raped, sexually assaulted, or abused, at any time in their life. Police interviews and forensic examinations can be undertaken privately, and specialist staff are trained to help survivors regardless of when or where the incident happened, and they will support the individual to make informed decisions about what they want to do next – but will never tell them what to do.  

“They will listen to survivors and believe them, and they will be cared for in a place where they are safe. SARCs support people of all ages, whatever their sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Please do not suffer in silence, you are not alone – help is available from a SARC without having to talk to the police or report what happened.

“The development of this new sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) hub in Aberystwyth is a huge step forward in the specialist support available to victims and survivors.” 

The hub will raise awareness of the support available to victims and survivors and provide a safe and confidential environment where people can access medical care, forensic examination, counselling, and ongoing advocacy.

This investment also reflects the Commissioner’s commitment to putting victims and survivors at the heart of the 2025-2029 Police and Crime Plan priorities, ensuring their voices are heard and needs are met.

For more information and to access support, visit:
New Pathways Rape crisis and sexual abuse support services.
How to access support after a Sexual Assault (SARC) – Hywel Dda University Health Board