Foyle Women’s Aid visit The Rowan

Representatives from Foyle Women’s Aid recently visited The Rowan (Sexual Assault Centre for Northern Ireland) to see at first hand the services provided to individuals who have experienced sexual abuse.

The Rowan is a specialist regional facility managed by the Northern Health and Social Care Trust (NHSCT), and jointly funded by the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (DHSSPS) and the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI).

It provides a one-stop location for all victims, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, ability or sexual orientation, who have experienced sexual assault, whether recently or in the past. The centre also provides a comprehensive and co-ordinated package of care to promote recovery and wellbeing with follow-up support and a 24 hours advice and information line (0800 389 4424).

Karen Douglas, Service Manager for the Rowan commented: “We are delighted to welcome our colleagues from Foyle Women’s Aid to The Rowan. Both our organisations understand the devastation domestic and sexual violence can have on the lives of individuals and families. By working together and keeping victims at the heart of the service, we can be assured they will receive the best care possible and whatever support they may require to rebuild their lives.”

Marie Brown, Director of Foyle Women’s Aid, stated: “Foyle Women’s Aid is proactively working to support victims of sexual abuse and in the North West and encouraging them to use the Criminal Justice system. The Rowan Centre is an important development in the provision of services for victims of abuse.”

Further information on the services provided can be found on The Rowan website at www.therowan.net or by contacting a member of The Rowan Team on: 0800 389 4424.

Pictured: Members of Foyle Women’s Aid pictured with Karen Douglas, Manager of The Rowan and Inspector Anne Marks.

19th March 2014