Health Minister Ann Keen MP visited The Haven at King's on Thursday to see how the NHS is helping support victims of sexual assault.

The Minister was introduced to Haven staff and representatives from the Metropolitan police service, before being given a tour of the centre by Clinical Director for the service, Jan Welch.

The Haven at King's was set up in May 2000, initially to serve eight and later all twelve boroughs in south London.

During her visit, the Minister was talked through the 'client journey' that victims of sexual assault go through when they visit the Haven. She was also shown the forensic examination rooms, shower facilities, counselling and consulting rooms, which together enable the Haven team to provide practical and emotional support for victims of sexual assault from across London.

Jan Welch, Clinical Director, said:

"Sexual assault referral centres play a vital role in supporting victims of sexual assault across London. The three Havens provide immediate care, night and day, to those who have been sexually assaulted, including emotional support and medical examination and treatment if necessary. We were delighted to give the Minister a tour of the centre, and she was clearly interested in what she saw and heard."