Trauma centre for young rape victims

October 6, 2006

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A trauma centre for children and teens who have been sexually assaulted will be created in North Hobart after a new funding deal.

Three extra staff, including a male counsellor, have been engaged by the Sexual Assault Support Service under the three-year agreement with the Department of Health and Human Services.

"The additional funding and the stability of a three-year agreement will ensure SASS continues to provide quality programs and increased support for women, men and children and their supporters in southern Tasmania." SASS board member Kerry Degrassi said.

SASS has signed the lease on new premises to accommodate the adult and crisis services. The existing premises will be converted into a trauma centre for children and adolescents.

Health and Human Services Minister Lara Giddings signed the agreement yesterday, which includes extra recurrent funding of $450,000 committed to before the March election.