Rape crisis centre moves to new city premises
Lincolnshire Rape Crisis has moved into new premises on South Park Avenue in Lincoln marking a major milestone in the charity’s mission to support survivors of sexual violence across the county.
The relocation coincides with the organisation’s 12-year anniversary and the launch of a significant expansion of its services, including Lincolnshire’s first dedicated Children and Young Person’s Sexual Violence Support Centre.
The new base at 76a South Park brings together the charity’s Women’s Centre, central headquarters, and the new CYP Centre.
Spokesperson and CEO for Lincolnshire Rape Crisis, Laura McKane (above left) said: “This move is a significant milestone for us. Our new Centres for Women, Children and Young People offer more space, bespoke design, and outdoor space. This move will significantly contribute to our continuity of care and ensures we can offer a consistent, trauma-informed environment.
“The new premises support our commitment to providing confidential, safe and welcoming spaces for survivors. We are pleased to be working with Lindum to make this possible.”
The organisation offers free, confidential emotional support, counselling, advocacy and Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (ISVA) services to people of all genders and ages who have experienced sexual violence or abuse, whether recent or historic.
Accredited by Rape Crisis England & Wales, the charity works from an intersectional, anti-racist feminist perspective and provides specialist services for male, trans and non-binary survivors via its Mr & Mx Centre, which remains in its original city centre location.
The new South Park premises are described as central, discreet and more accessible to clients across Lincolnshire. Following three months of renovation and decoration, the new HQ is now fully operational and welcoming clients into what the team describes as a ‘beautiful and meaningful space’.
As part of the expansion, Lincolnshire Rape Crisis is also preparing to unveil a full rebrand of the service in the coming weeks. In celebration of the move and the charity’s 12th year, an open day for professionals and partners is planned to showcase the facilities and introduce the team behind the service.
The new premises, previously used by a care company, is owned and let to the charity by Lindum Group, a Lincoln-based construction company, which aims to support community focused organisations.
Angela Morley Lindum’s Facilities Manager, said: “We’re really pleased to welcome Lincolnshire Rape Crisis to their new home. As landlord, it’s important to us that the building provides a safe, comfortable and functional space for both staff and clients.
“The work the charity does is invaluable, and we’re pleased to play a small part in helping them continue supporting people across Lincolnshire.”
Angela is pictured with Laura outside the new premises.
For more information or to make a referral, visit www.lincolnshirerapecrisis.org.uk.