Patients and colleagues affected by sexual violence now have additional support at University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust (UHMBT) thanks to a new role funded by the Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner.
Chloe Haughton (pictured right), has been appointed as the Health Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (HISVA) at UHMBT - a role designed to provide vital emotional and practical support to patients aged 16 and over who have experienced sexual violence, either recently or in the past. HISVAs can assist with coping strategies, safety planning and guidance through the court process.
Based at the Royal Lancaster Infirmary (RLI), Chloe covers the entire Trust across Morecambe Bay, ensuring that patients and staff can access help when they need it most.
Chloe works closely with patients to assess their safety and support needs through a structured ‘Safety and Support Assessment’. This assessment helps identify the most appropriate services and support for each person, whether or not they choose to report the incident to the police.
Chloe said: “Not everyone feels ready or able to go to the police. My role is to ensure that patients and staff know they can still access support, advice and care even if they don’t want to make a formal report. It’s about helping people to understand their options and feel empowered to make the decisions that are right for them.”
Lancashire's Police and Crime Commissioner, Clive Grunshaw (pictured left), said: “I am proud that my Office has been able to fund this vital role at University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust.
“Survivors of sexual violence deserve compassionate, specialist support - whether or not they choose to report to the police. Chloe’s work as a Health Independent Sexual Violence Advisor is already making a meaningful difference, helping individuals feel heard, safe, and empowered. This partnership reflects our ongoing commitment to ensuring that support is accessible in the places people need it most, and I commend UHMBT for their dedication to safeguarding.”
Chloe’s work includes signposting patients and staff to long-term support services such as Victim Support.
Importantly, Chloe’s support is not limited to patients. She is also available to confidentially help UHMBT colleagues who may have experienced sexual violence, whether recently or in the past. She is also working alongside colleagues such as the Trust’s Domestic Violence Advisor and there are plans to deliver training sessions for colleagues.
Chloe’s post is currently funded by the Office of the Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner until March 2027, and she is already making a big impact, having helped numerous people to access much needed support.
UHMBT’s Safeguarding Team is working to ensure that staff across all departments - including Emergency Departments (EDs) and community services are aware of the support available and how to access it.
Chloe added: “If you’ve experienced sexual violence, you are not alone. You can speak to staff at our hospitals and there is support available. We are here to help.”
Patients can contact Chloe via the healthcare professional responsible for their care.