That the Parliament recognises the outstanding work of The STAR Centre – Rape Crisis Ayrshire and Arran in providing specialist, trauma-informed support to women and girls who have experienced sexual violence, abuse or exploitation; commends the centre for providing a safe, welcoming and confidential service for women and girls aged 13 and over, regardless of when the abuse or violence occurred; notes that the STAR Centre supports survivors across North, South and East Ayrshire, including Arran and Cumbrae; commends its dedicated advocacy workers for supporting survivors throughout the criminal justice process, including when speaking to police, attending meetings with the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service and preparing for court, providing information and practical support at every stage; recognises the importance of ensuring that survivors are treated with dignity, compassion and understanding; acknowledges the profound and lasting impact that sexual violence can have on survivors and the vital role played by specialist organisations such as the STAR Centre in helping women and girls rebuild confidence and move forward following trauma; thanks the centre's advocacy workers, prevention officers, support workers and volunteers for their dedication and compassion, and wishes the organisation continued success in its vital work supporting survivors across Ayrshire, Arran and Cumbrae.
Supported by: Colin Beattie, Amanda Bland, David Kirkwood, Jamie Langan, Amanda Lindsay, Julie MacDougall, Duncan Massey, Angela Ross, David Smith, Paul Sweeney