POLICE in Avon and Somerset are investigating more rape cases than they were two years ago, in line with a national rise in the number of people reporting offences.

In 2014, almost 1,000 people contacted The Bridge, the Avon and Somerset rape and sexual assault referral centre, which is available around-the-clock, double the number compared with 2013.

Figures this year predict a similar number of people coming forward in relation to recent and historic sexual offences, with nearly 500 people contacting The Bridge in the first six months of 2015.

Head of the Protect unit at Avon and Somerset, Detective Superintendent Rachel Williams said: “Nationally, we have seen an increase in the numbers of people reporting rape and this has been mirrored across the Avon and Somerset force area.

“We believe this rise is indicative of an increased level of confidence from victims of serious sexual assaults to report these crimes to us initially and work by police to improve our crime recording practices.

“Tackling serious sexual offences is a force-wide and Police and Crime Commissioner priority and together we are committed to protecting people from offences that cause most threat and harm to our communities.”

She added: “Rape is one of the most serious violent crimes and the impact on victims is both devastating and long term. We continually review the way we deal with reports of such offences to improve our practices, better understand the needs of victims, and make sure we place them at the very heart of every investigation.

“This includes working closely with the CPS and other partners to share learnings, information and victim feedback. Together, we are actively using this report to develop our services and ways of working to ensure every victim is fully supported by all appropriate agencies.”

Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens said: “Tackling domestic and sexual abuse, particularly towards women and children, is one of my priorities in the Police and Crime Plan. It’s important that all victims of domestic and sexual abuse get the help they need, when they need it.

“Rape and sexual assault can have a profound impact on victims and it’s important they get both practical and emotional support to help them cope and recover from what has happened. I want to continue to improve the consistency and quality of services available to victims and to increase confidence amongst victims to report to the police.”

A new website thebridgecanhelp.org.uk has just been launched and police are visiting local schools and youth clubs to deliver a ‘Only Yes Means Yes’ lesson plan. Last year Avon and Somerset police also launched award-winning The Lighthouse, a support service for rape victims from the first point of contact with police through to a court case.