Survive’s CEO, Mags Godderidge received the High Sheriff of North Yorkshire, Dr Ruth Smith, at their premises in Micklegate, York.

Dr Ruth Smith, in position since March, pledged to highlight the issue of violence against women and girls during her tenure with a particular interest in supporting children who witness or are subjected to domestic abuse.

Ms Godderidge said, “Sexual violence and abuse is often not talked about – yet the vast majority of those who use our services are women – many of whom were subjected to sexual violence as young girls. Child sexual abuse in particular can have long-term and sometimes lifelong consequences including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, self-harm and suicidal thoughts. We welcome the High Sheriff using her year in office to shine a spotlight on Violence Against Women and Girls.”

Dr Ruth Smith adds, “My head was buzzing from meeting Mags Godderidge from Survive.

Survive is an amazing organisation that makes a life-changing difference to people who have experienced sexual violence.
It is an inconvenient truth that this is prevalent and not nearly enough is done to provide support. So many of society’s issues, e.g. substance misuse, stem from trauma and too often we treat the symptoms rather than the underlying cause. The impact of treating the cause could be such a game changer.

My visit coincided with the publication from The National Police Chiefs Council that violence against women and girls had increased by 37% in the past 5 years with perpetrators getting younger.

It was brilliant meeting Mags at Survive and the fantastic work they do. It is just sad that this need to help people rebuild their lives from such trauma is increasing.”