The scope, range and use of voluntary sector specialist sexual violence services in England: Findings and recommendations from a national study

Sexual violence is a global problem with significant individual and societal health and social costs. Services that support victim-survivors of sexual violence across a range of sectors are crucial. This study investigated the scope, range, funding and commissioning of voluntary sector specialist (VSS) sexual violence services in England and victim-survivors’ experiences of using such services. The specialist voluntary sector plays a pivotal role in providing crisis and longer-term support to victim-survivors. However, there is limited empirical evidence about the scope, range and use of VSS provision, or what victim-survivors value and want from services. The aim of the study was to address this gap and provide much-needed evidence to inform the VSS sector nationally. This co-produced study included five co-researchers and one co-applicant with lived experience of sexual violence. There were three empirical phases: (1) exploratory interviews with commissioners and service providers and focus groups with victim-survivors; (2) national survey of service providers and commissioners; (3) in-depth case study analysis in four areas of England. The purpose of this paper is to synthesise the findings from each of these phases and map them onto a conceptual model, encompassing six themes: the complex and precarious funding landscape; the challenge of competition for funding and contracts; the role of partnership working; the pressured environments within which VSS services work; the different roles, scope and eligibility of voluntary and statutory services within an area; the ways services are delivered, underpinned by services’ values and philosophies. The study provides new, empirical insights into how these arrangements affect those connected with the services—namely, staff, volunteers and victim-survivors. The paper sets out 14 recommendations for all parties involved in the funding and commissioning of specialist services, including commissioners, grant funders and VSS organisations in England.