A NEW scheme will be used to help sex attack and abuse victims in the county as it was revealed more than 100 are on a waiting list.

Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne has secured the funding boost as part of a Ministry of Justice plan.

It will see three full time advocates working for the Survivors Network charity to support victims at a cost of £247,000.

The news follows concerns that the coronavirus lockdown has led to advocates having to spend longer with victims as the plight of clients has got worse.

Waiting lists got worse, and more than 100 victims still need support.

Survivors Network chief executive Jay Breslaw said: “Where people are seeking support after having experienced sexual violence and abuse, we need to offer support in a way that works for those individuals.

“However, we know that for some people, even reaching out for the support is hard.

“This additional funding will enable us to support an increased number of clients and crucially to work with individuals to break down some of those barriers and work them in a way that works for them.

“We know that the recovery journey can be difficult, but it is possible and we are here.”

Sussex PCC Katy Bourne said: “Nobody should ever have to suffer this kind of abuse but unfortunately we are seeing more and more people being exploited in this way and they desperately need specialist support.

“Sexual crimes are devastating, and having someone to provide support and advocacy, liaise with agencies and ensure that the voice of the victim is amplified is so crucial and necessary.

“That is why I am pleased to continue to support this worthwhile service. I do not want to see any vulnerable victims slipping through the protective net.”