A HAMPSHIRE health body has retained a major contract to help victims of sexual assault.

Solent NHS Trust will continue to run Treetops, Hampshire and Isle of Wight’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre, after securing a tender for the services.

The trust will work with Hampshire Police and rape crisis services to ensure the centre provides a supportive environment and expert care to help victims cope with the traumatic experiences.

Specially trained doctors and crisis workers, who saw 461 men and women at the centre during 2013/14, offer medical and emotional support, practical help and information.

Sue Harriman, trust chief executive, said: “We are delighted to have been selected to continue to provide Hampshire and Isle of Wight’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre. As the current provider, we have a deep understanding of the impact rape or sexual assault can have on a victim. Our skilled staff at the centre are extremely committed and offer a professional, high quality service to clients when they need it most.”

She added: “We will build upon our excellent work to date by developing the service. In particular, we are looking to increase awareness of the centre, and the support available, with members of the public, front line staff from all sectors and partner organisations.”

The service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and the new contract begins on April 1, 2015.