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Support

If you have experienced sexual violence or know someone who has, The STAR Centre is here to support you. Get in touch here. If you are unable to reach us, you can call the Rape Crisis Scotland helpline. 

Individual Support

The highly qualified staff at The STAR Centre: Rape Crisis Ayrshire offer specialist therapeutic and emotional support and psychosocial education to survivors of any type of sexual violence in a safe, non-judgemental space. 

We can help you understand what you are going through and support you in finding ways to cope and move forward. You will initially be offered nine, fortnightly sessions, each lasting up to 50 minutes with an experienced support worker after which we will discuss with you what support you need going forward.

You can choose to have your sessions face to face in our Kilmarnock office, or via telephone or video conferencing.

Support for Young People

We are currently able to offer support to young people age 13+. These sessions are delivered by staff with additional expertise in working with younger people and all resources used are age appropriate. These sessions can be delivered face to face in our Kilmarnock office or in a confidential space in the young person’s school.

Group Support

Our group sessions allow survivors to feel less alone while working through what has happened to them. Group programmes are run throughout the year. The next group is scheduled for summer 2024.

Support for Friends and Family

Supporting someone after they have experienced sexual violence can be difficult. You might be worried that you’ll say the wrong thing, or hurt the person you care about. You might feel angry, hurt, guilty or confused. You might be experiencing trauma of your own. Our support staff can offer specialist therapeutic and emotional support and advice in a safe, non-judgemental space. 

Being able to empathise and understand what someone is going through after an experience of sexual violence is so important. We can help you understand what you, and your loved one are going through and support you both in finding ways to cope and move forward.

We also have a dedicated resource page for friends, family and romantic partners of those that have experienced sexual violence.

Rape Crisis Scotland Helpline

Get in touch any day between 5pm – midnight:
Call: 08088 01 03 02
Text: 07537 410 027
Email: support@rapecrisisscotland.org.uk 
Webchat: www.rapecrisisscotland.org.uk

The Rape Crisis Scotland helpline offers confidential short-term, crisis and initial support by phone, email, webchat and text. Our phone, email and webchat support is free and texts will be charged at your normal network rate. Calls to us do not show on your bill.

We support people of all genders living in Scotland aged 13+ who have been affected by sexual violence. It doesn’t matter what happened or how long ago, and you don’t have to talk about anything you don’t want to. We support survivors, as well as family, friends and supporters.

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Every pound donated goes directly to supporting people who have experienced sexual violence.

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Yesterday was #MHDay2025! At The STAR Centre, we recognise that everyone's menstrual cycle affects them in unique ways. 🌺 From physical symptoms like cramps and bloating to emotional shifts that can impact your mood, it's essential to listen to your body and give yourself the care you deserve during this time. Don’t hesitate to take time for self-care during your period. Whether it's a warm bath, indulging in your favourite snacks, or simply taking a break from your routine, prioritise your well-being. 💖 Remember, self-care is not selfish; it's necessary! Share your favourite self-care tips below! ⬇️ #MenstrualHealth #SelfCareMatters #ListenToYourBody
Today is also Menstrual Hygiene Day! At the STAR Centre we are helping to create a #PeriodFriendlyWorld by ensuring our bathroom is stocked with a range of period products. We have a selection of pads, tampons, liners and were donated some free period pants by @wukawear in a range of sizes. We encourage anyone using our space to take what you need, whenever you may need it. #MHDay2025
How is the STAR centre part of the fight for sexual and reproductive health and rights and justice (#SRHRJ)? 🟣 We support survivors of sexual violence 🟣 We advocate for survivors of sexual violence 🟣 We deliver preventative education on sex, healthy relationships and sexual violence to young people
This #May28 – International Day of Action for Women’s Health, organisations and activists take action and amplify demands for sexual and reproductive health and rights and justice (#SRHRJ)! Find out more: may28.org
🌈 💚Agender Pride is a celebration of those who exist outside the traditional bounds of gender. It’s a reminder that identity is personal and unique, and everyone deserves the freedom to be their true self. At The STAR Centre, we are committed to providing support and healing for all survivors, no matter how they identify. We want to help create a world where every person’s story is seen, heard, and respected. #AgenderPride #InclusiveSupport #GenderInclusivity #AnyBodyAnyTypeAnyTime
🌈 The STAR Centre stands against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia. We are committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and supportive space for all survivors of sexual violence in Ayrshire (aged 13+), regardless of sex, gender identity, sexuality, ethnicity, age, disability, or religion. Standing against discrimination is key to standing with survivors. 💜 #IDAHOBIT2025 #SupportSurvivors #InclusiveSupport #STARCentre
Sometimes the best thing you can do for your mental health 💙 is reach out to people who understand. The STAR Centre supports survivors of sexual violence & their loved ones. You're not alone. 📞 01563 544686 🌐 starcentreayrshire.org #MentalHealthMatters #SupportSurvivors #YouAreNotAlone #TraumaSupport
This #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek, we're highlighting the power of community. Survivors of sexual violence often face isolation, guilt, and shame—feelings that can deeply affect mental health. By believing survivors and supporting them, we build communities where healing is possible. 💚 #SupportSurvivors #MentalHealthMatters
📉 It starts small. A joke. A look. A comment. But gender-based violence doesn’t come out of nowhere. Allport’s Scale shows how everyday “harmless” bias builds the road to real harm. 📝 New blog post—link in bio. #GenderBasedViolence #EverydaySexism #AllportsScale #EndGBV #AnyBodyAnyTypeAnyTime
⏰ 7 Days Left to Apply! Join the STAR Centre as our new Service Manager 💜 We're looking for a passionate, experienced leader to help drive change for survivors of sexual violence and support prevention work with young people. ✨ The Role: 🔹 Title: Service Manager 🔹 Hours: 28/week 🔹 Salary: £28,800 (pro rata from £36,000) 🔹 Holidays: 8 weeks incl. public holidays 🔹 Deadline: 12 noon, 16 May 2025 🔹 Interviews: Week of 2 June 2025 We’re a feminist organisation working to end violence against women and girls — if that’s your passion, we’d love to hear from you. 📍 Apply at: www.starcentreayrshire.org/vacancies 📧 Or email: admin@starcentreayrshire.org #7DaysToApply #FeministJobs #VAWG #ServiceManager #AyrshireJobs #SupportSurvivors
It’s Deaf Awareness Week - a time to raise awareness and promote understanding of the Deaf community, their cultures, experiences, and contributions. It’s also a time to take meaningful action, breaking down barriers and improving accessibility for Deaf people. At Rape Crisis Scotland, we believe that support must be available to everyone. That’s why we work with Contact Scotland BSL, a free online interpreting service, making it easier for Deaf survivors of sexual violence to access our helpline, and to contact NHS 24, Police 101, GPs, and other vital services in British Sign Language. 💬 Accessibility matters. 💙 You deserve to be heard - in your own language. #DeafAwarenessWeek #BSLAccess #RapeCrisisScotland #ContactScotlandBSL #SupportForAll #AccessibilityMatters #DeafCommunity #AnyBodyAnyTypeAnyTime
🌟 Important Information for Survivors of Sexual Violence: Understanding Panic Attacks 🌟 If you or someone you know is experiencing panic attacks, it is crucial to recognize the challenges they present, particularly for survivors of sexual violence. We are pleased to provide a complimentary resource that thoroughly explores the nature of panic attacks, enhancing your understanding of their symptoms and potential impact on your recovery process. This resource from Rape Crisis Scotland not only clarifies the sensations associated with panic attacks but also offers a range of self-care strategies aimed at effectively managing these distressing episodes. 🧘‍♀️✨ Download your free resource today! 📥 https://www.starcentreayrshire.org/survivor-resources/ #AnyBodyAnyTypeAnyTime
This International Day of the Midwife, we’re celebrating the incredible midwives who deliver not just babies, but dignity, safety, and compassion. 💜 Pregnancy and giving birth is an intimate, deeply personal experience. For survivors of sexual violence, it can also be a time of flashbacks, trauma triggers, and heightened vulnerability. With 1 in 5 women experiencing sexual violence, the need for specialist, trauma-informed maternity care is urgent. That’s why the My Body Back Project is so vital. Their midwives are specially trained to support survivors, helping them feel safe, empowered, and in control of their pregnancy experience . We’re proud to shine a light on this essential service. Survivors deserve obstetric care who truly listen and empathise with their experiences. 🔗 Learn more or refer someone at: https://mybodybackproject.com/ #InternationalDayOfTheMidwife #MyBodyBackProject #TraumaInformedCare #SurvivorSupport #AnyBodyAnyTypeAnyTime
🌍 Want to see how our prevention team is making an impact in the community? 📍 Follow their work in real time on our interactive map: 👉 www.starcentreayrshire.org/prevention-tracker #CommunitySupport #PreventionMatters #MakingADifference #STARCentre #Ayrshire #PreventionInAction
April is #SexualAssaultAwarenessMonth 🗯️ Raising awareness around different types of sexual violence is a vital first step in prevention. Knowing what sexual violence is can also help survivors come forward and get support if they need it. For this reason we have broken down what the difference is between sexual violence and sexual assault. If you have experienced any type of sexual violence or know someone who has, the STAR Centre is here to help. Call us on 01563 544686 or visit our website: https://www.starcentreayrshire.org/
💜 Today is #LesbianVisibilityDay Sexual violence against lesbian women is too often minimised or ignored. Gender stereotypes and internalised homophobia can make it hard to name, report, or process that harm. To every lesbian survivor: ✨ We believe you ✨ We hear you ✨ We are here for you You are not alone. 💜 #LesbianVisibility #LGBTQIA #SurvivorSupport #EndSexualViolence #WeBelieveYou
📱 There’s an app for people being stalked. This #StalkingAwarenessWeek, we're raising awareness of the @followitappscot, developed by @rapecrisisscot and the Scottish Women's Rights Centre. 🔐 It helps victim-survivors log stalking behaviours securely and privately ⚖️ Tailored to Scots law 📲 Use it whether or not you want to report to police #StalkingAwareness #SupportSurvivors #FollowItApp #NSAW2025 #YouAreNotAlone
Over the past few years, a disturbing hoax has circulated on TikTok and other platforms claiming that April 24th is a day when rape and sexual assault are “legal.” Let’s be absolutely clear: ❌ Rape and sexual assault are serious crimes — and they are never acceptable. This false narrative isn’t a joke. It spreads fear, retraumatises survivors, and contributes to a culture that minimises sexual violence. If you’ve seen posts about this online: 🔹 Don’t share them 🔹 Report harmful content 🔹 Take care of yourself & your mental health Survivors deserve safety, truth, and support — not fear-mongering or misinformation. We’re here. 365 days a year. 💜 #April24 #RapeCulture #SupportSurvivors #AnyBodyAnyTypeAnyTime
🟡 Stalking is serious—and it’s more common than you think. It’s a pattern of behaviour that can leave lasting emotional and psychological scars. This #StalkingAwarenessWeek Swipe through to learn: 🔍 What stalking looks like 💥 Its real-life impact 🧭 Where to find support Visit @actionagainststalkingaas and @live_life_safe for more information If you have experienced any type of sexual violence The STAR Centre is here to give you support, advice and advocacy. Call us on 01563 544686 or visit our website (link in bio) #StalkingAwareness #RecogniseRespondRefer #SpotTheSigns #NSAW2025
Sorry we're late to the trend! Our version of the #actionfiguretrend comes complete with a trauma-informed, confidential, feminist and empowering approach to supporting survivors of sexual violence. Accessories include: 🍬sour sweets for grounding 🪑comfortable chairs and pillows 🎎fidget and sensory toys 📚resources 💅self-care boxes #aitrend
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