Dorset Rape Crisis Support Centre has changed its name to encourage more people to engage with the service.

The organisation will now be known as STARS, an acronym of Sexual Trauma and Recovery Service.

The name change is part of a rebrand aimed at helping more people to come forward to the charity and the services it offers.

Helen Stevens, STARS Service Manager said “As a client led organisation, that’s been supporting survivors for the past 30 years, it is really important to us that we reduce the barriers of coming forward for support after an experience of sexual assault, rape or any other form of sexual violence.

“We wanted to ensure that as we continue to grow and develop as a charity, that our specialist support services are more accessible to everyone across Dorset. We are delighted with the new name and excited by our new brand identity created by Global Brand Communications as we truly believe it will help a wider group of survivors to engage with our support and be helped on their journey of recovery.”

STARS is a free service for anyone of any age or gender who lives, works or studies in Dorset and has experienced any form of sexual violence at any time in their life.

It offers a counselling service, a helpline, an Independent Sexual Violence Advisor Service and a service specifically for children and young people.

As well as the name, the charity’s rebrand includes a new logo and website.

Sharon Parker, Global Brand Communications Commercial Director added “Global Brand Communications is incredibly proud to have created the new STARS brand, to help raise awareness of the amazing work carried out by the charity.

“Developing an identity that is engaging, impactful, sometimes shocking, but also approachable, positive and unifying, has been a challenge we have truly embraced.

“We were inspired by the passion and dedication of the STARS team and the transformational work they undertake every day. They now have a brand that will support them in the next phase of their journey and far beyond!”

Anyone who has been affected by sexual violence and would like confidential advice and support can call the STARS Helpline on 01202 308855 or visit www.starsdorset.org.