From April-December 2008, 1050 sexual offences were recorded by police in the Devon and Cornwall Constabulary. Sexual violence is extremely traumatic: in a World Health Organisation report (see the link below) it states that 'sexual violence has been associated with a number of mental health and behaviourial problems': this includes post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and even suicidal tendencies. Most importantly, the report says that 'in the absence of trauma counselling, negative psychological effects have been known to persist for at least a year following a rape'. Fortunately, in Bodmin in Cornwall, there is 'free, friendly, confidential support for women and teenage girls who have suffered rape, sexual assault, incest, childhood sexual abuse, sexual harassment or any form of sexual attack'. Support for victims of sexual violence should not be a postcode lottery, Devon needs a Rape Crisis Centre. We, the undersigned, feel that Devon County Council has a responsibility to help provide this service to the citizens of Devon.