BACKING FOR RAPE REVIEW; Police Authority voices support.

Byline: SANDY McKENZIE

STRONG support has been voiced by Cleveland Police Authority for the Government's announcement there is to be a review of how rape complaints are handled. Police Authority Chair Councillor Dave McLuckie said he believed that Cleveland - which has been highlighted for achieving the highest rate of rape convictions in the country - could make a significant contribution to the review.

The review will be led by Baroness Stern and recommendations will be made on how to encourage more victims to report rape and how conviction rates can be fairly increased.

In June a report from the Fawcett Society showed that nearly one in five - 18.7% - of reported rapes in the Cleveland Force area in 2007 led to a conviction, compared to a 7% national average. Cllr McLuckie said: "The Government is right in wanting the review to examine how various agencies, including the police and Crown Prosecution Service, health services, local authorities and voluntary organisations, work together to provide the best possible help and support for victims of rape, not just immediately after an assault has taken place but in the long term.

"Dealing with rape and other sexual assault crimes is a very challenging area of work. The fact that we have relatively high rates for convictions demonstrates we take it seriously - and we are committed to doing even better."

Authority Member Pam Andrews Mawer, who played a leading role in the setting up of the Cleveland Sexual Assault Referral Centresays that co-operation between different organisations is vital in meeting the needs of victims - and bringing offenders to justice.

The SARC offers 24-hour access to specially trained rape crisis workers, emergency contraception, sexual health advice and referral to rape counselors.

Anybody wishing to report a sexual assault should contact Cleveland Police on 01642 326326. Reports can also be made anonymously to the Sexual Assault Referral Centre on 01642 516888 and access to the full range of the centre's services is assured even in cases where the victim does not wish to make a report to the police.

Victims of rape and sexual assault can also contact Women's Support Network on 01642 822331, Eva Women's Aid Rape Crisis Service on 01642 835079 and SEARCH - Sexual Abuse and Rape Counselling in Hartlepool and Stockton on 01429 891151.