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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
National
Abigail O'Leary

Camilla backs NHS campaign to support victims of rape and sex abuse

Camilla is backing a drive to urge sex abuse victims to use the health service for support.

It comes after NHS England announced a three-year, £20million funding boost for sexual assault referral centres - offering support to victims of rape, sexual assault and abuse

Services available include medical examinations, emergency contraception and testing for sexually transmitted infections, as well as referrals for mental health support.

Kate Davies, NHS director of sexual assault services commissioning, said: "Sexual assault or domestic abuse can happen to anyone. Sadly, thousands of people aren’t sure where to turn to get the help they need. Today the NHS is making it clear you can turn to us.

"We provide confidential emotional, medical or practical support at our sexual assault referral centres, a dedicated safe space for anyone who needs it.

Writing in the Women’s Institute magazine in November, Camilla made a call for the ‘"retreat of domestic abuse forever" (PA)

"We know it can take a lot to pick up the phone and take that first step – we are here at any time of day or night, and we will support you through the whole process."

Although figures show domestic abuse and sexual assault increased during the pandemic, NHS England said the number of people receiving help from Sarcs halved after the first lockdown compared with 2019.

Writing in the Women’s Institute magazine in November, Camilla made a call for the ‘"retreat of domestic abuse forever", and highlighted that two women are killed every week by a current or former partner in England and Wales.

The campaign has also been backed by former prime minister Theresa May, who said: "It is important for victims of sexual assault and abuse to know the NHS is there for them."

Charles and Camilla leave St George's Chapel, Windsor, following the blessing of their wedding (PA)

It comes as the Queen celebrates 70 years in the throne - with Her Majesty mentioning Camilla as part of her speech.

In a message to the nation, the Queen wrote: “When, in the fullness of time, my son Charles becomes King, I know you will give him and his wife Camilla the same support that you have given me.

“And it is my sincere wish that, when that time comes, Camilla will be known as Queen Consort as she continues her own loyal service.”

A spokesman for Charles said: “The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall are touched and honoured by Her Majesty’s words.” Former BBC royal correspondent Peter Hunt said of the Queen’s announcement: “This is the most extraordinary message.”

It comes as the Queen celebrates 70 years in the throne - with Her Majesty mentioning Camilla as part of her speech (PA)

And recalling Diana’s Panorama interview in 1995, Mr Hunt added: “For Camilla, the journey from being the third person in a marriage to queen-in-waiting, is complete.”

Dickie Arbiter, a former press secretary to the Queen, said hostility towards Camilla after the 1997 death of Diana “has evaporated completely”. He added: “The Duchess has shown that she is a great support to Charles, the Queen and the institution.”

Royal author Dr Andrew Lownie said: “Camilla has earned her spurs. The Queen, who wouldn’t have Camilla in the room at one point, has become very fond of her.

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