Extra funding from the Ministry of Justice has meant more specialist support is now available for children and young people affected by sexual violence or abuse across Lancashire.

Thanks to the additional money, which was secured by Clive Grunshaw, Lancashire's Police and Crime Commissioner, three new case workers have been able to join the Lancashire Victim Services team to offer expert support to anyone affected, aged from five upwards.

Claire Powell, Account Manager at Lancashire Victim Services said: "We are delighted to be able to strengthen our team even further.

"Sexual abuse has a long lasting impact and it is so important that anyone affected can access specialist support to help them move forward and recover.

"By providing emotional support and helping children and young people through the difficult criminal justice process we can help them navigate through a truly traumatic experience and work with them to find the best possible way forward together.

"Having three experts that can provide this specialist support is fantastic news and will make a real difference to young people's lives."

The children and young people independent sexual violence advisers (CYP ISVAs) can provide practical and emotional support to those who have experienced rape, sexual abuse or sexual exploitation, while also liaising between the police, courts and other agencies on behalf of the young people affected to help them through the criminal justice process.

Mr Grunshaw said: "Supporting victims and vulnerable people is a key priority for me and I am delighted to have been able to secure the additional funding.

"Sexual violence of any kind is abhorrent and all the more shocking when it involves children.

"Young people affected by sexual violence need and deserve to get the best possible support and the three extra posts will strengthen the current team to provide just that."

Anyone affected by sexual violence, abuse or exploitation can contact Lancashire Victim Services on 0300 323 0085, by using the live chat at www.lancashirevictimservices.org or by emailing info@lancashirevictimservices.org.