To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety why his Department has not provided any funding for research into sexual violence and abuse, including strategies which address this directly, either through, or independent of, the Tackling Sexual Violence and Abuse Strategy, since 2011.

Since 2011, my Department has directed all available resources for tackling sexual violence and abuse to the provision and enhancement of information, advice and support services for victims and their families.

My Department jointly funds The Rowan, the UK’s first purpose built Sexual Assault Referral Centre. The Rowan provides services in the aftermath of a sexual assault, rape or an incident involving childhood abuse and provides services 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

The Government’s 24 Hour Domestic and Sexual Violence Helpline is co-funded by my Department. The Helpline provides immediate advice and support to all victims and also signposts to a wide range of other specialised services.

My Department also provides core funding to support the work of Nexus NI. Nexus responds to the needs of those who have experienced sexual violence and abuse through the provision of counselling services.