The Duchess of Cornwall visits a SARC in Paddington and Thames Valley Partnership to see new technology helping those affected by domestic violence

Today, during Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week, The Duchess of Cornwall visited Paddington Haven, a Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) in West London, before travelling to Aylesbury to hear about the new technology being used to support those affected by domestic abuse.

The Duchess was joined by Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London, and social media influencer Zara McDermott for the visit to Paddington Haven. Her Royal Highness met centre staff and heard about the services on offer. SARCs are located across the country offering specialist practical, medical and emotional support.

The Duchess spoke to Laura Currer from Newcastle, who was supported by a SARC following sexual assault. Laura used a local SARC six years ago and is now Chair of the National Sexual Abuse and Assault Services Lived Experience Group.

She also met Nicola, a survivor of historical child abuse. The Duchess told them: “I think it’s wonderful that you have come back into the system to help others. It’s very important to have people like you.”

Next, The Duchess of Cornwall visited Thames Valley Partnership in Aylesbury, a charity working to protect and support victims of crime and to support offenders and their families in the Criminal Justice System.

Here The Duchess of Cornwall learnt about how new technology is enabling those affected by domestic abuse to seek help quicker.

One piece of technology HRH saw demonstrated was TecSOS, which provides immediate and confidential connection to the police via a mobile device for high-risk individuals affected by domestic abuse.

The Duchess also met a survivor of domestic abuse and met staff who help support victims of crime.