The Scottish Government has given emergency funding to a support group which faced an uncertain future

A service which provides vital support to victims of sexual assault has received emergency funding.

Glasgow and Clyde Rape Crisis announced this week that it would have to close its waiting list for personal support after losing Children in Need funding.

However this afternoon (Thursday 9 August) the Scottish Government announced it would provide £35,000 to the organisation in a bid to ensure the one to one support was not ceased.

Equalities minister Christina McKelvie said: “I’m pleased that we can provide this emergency funding which I hope will allow Glasgow and Clyde Rape Crisis to reopen its waiting list and continue to deliver the same level of service.

“We will continue to engage with Rape Crisis Scotland to assess this situation and to take a long term approach so that local rape crisis centres can continue to provide vital services not just in Glasgow, but across the country.”

The Scottish Government already provides provide £217,885 to Glasgow Rape Crisis, a mixture of core and project funding, however the organisation faced an uncertain future after losing out on a £35,000 annual grant from Children in Need.

It was reported that this was due to concerns at a lack of support provided to men by the service, however a spokesperson for Children in Need denied that this was the reason for the grant ceasing.

Glasgow Rape Crisis Centre manager Isabelle Kerr said: “I am so delighted that the Scottish Government stepped in and helped us.” Supporters have also rallied round to raise £10,500 following a crowdfunding initiative.