A SUPPORT group for rape survivors in Glasgow which has a 9 month waiting list is facing a funding crisis.

The Glasgow Rape Crisis support group said it had been forced to shut the waiting list for face to face support due to a loss of funding, which has had a "significiant impact" on service provision.

However, telephone support will still be provided.

It is understood that funding was withdraw by Children in Need, because of an apparent lack of provision of men, affected by sexual abuse.

A message posted on the Glasgow Rapecrisis support group reads:"Really sad to report today that we have had to close down the Glasgow Clyde Rape Crisis waiting list for all new survivors coming to the project.

"We are so sorry for having to make this decision but recent loss of funding for our work with young women and girls has had a significant impact on our overall service provision with current waiting times of up to 9 months for ongoing, face to face support.

"We will keep everyone posted about any changes to the service and, hopefully soon, when we get our waiting list open again and can offer shorter waiting times to survivors and their families."

"We can still offer telephone helpline support on 08088 00 00 14 every day of the week from 11.00 am until 2.00 pm and Monday to Thursday from 5.30 pm until 7.30 pm and we can offer drop-in services to survivors on Wednesdays from 10.30 am until 3.00 pm and Wednesday evenings from 5.30 pm until 7.30 pm."

In a statement, the White Ribbon Campaign, said: "After supporting Rape Crisis Glasgow and Clyde for six years Children in Need have decided to withdraw their funding because they do not think the Centre does enough for men and boys.

"Rape Crisis Centres provide services to women and girls including trans women and Children in Need must have been aware of this throughout the funding period.

"Losing this funding has caused the Centre Manager to have to take the decision to shut down vital services for survivors of rape.

"With nearly 2,000 rapes and attempts being reported in Scotland every year and the demand on Rape Crisis Centres being greater than ever these services are essential.

"Given that more than 90% of all reported rapes are committed against women it would seem more appropriate for Children in Need to consider providing funding to services geared up for male survivors rather than withdrawing this award.

"We would ask all our supporters to give consideration to making a donation to your local Rape Crisis Centre. If that is Glasgow and Clyde you can donate via the following link.
https://www.glasgowclyderapecrisis.org.uk/content/donate/