Dorset Sexual Assault and Abuse Therapy Service

Aims and objectives of the Dorset Sexual Assault and Abuse Therapy Service: • The service should offer a range of trauma-informed therapeutic interventions for children and adults of all genders who have experienced sexual violence and abuse. • Services for adults should prioritise those who have been assaulted within the last 12 months. • Services for children and young people, up to the age of 18 years, should be open to people who have been abused at any time. • Services for carers and families should be open to those supporting children and young people who are accessing the service. • Services should be available and equipped to work with people living with complex trauma. • Services should be available and accessible for people living anywhere in Dorset. • Services should be delivered both face-to-face and remotely, according to service user preference. • Services should be delivered individually or in groups where appropriate. • Clear escalation processes and referral pathways through the mental health pathway should be in place, to respond to the varying and changing needs of service users. • The Provider should have a comprehensive understanding of both statutory and voluntary sector therapeutic/ mental health provision and where their service fits into the integrated pathway. • Services should respond to the needs of people with protected characteristics, be culturally sensitive and offer reasonable adjustments where indicated. • Services should have a core objective of inclusivity and will encourage engagement with under-represented groups. The contract term will be for 7 years. The new contract is due to commence on 1st October 2022.