What we do

STARS is a pan-Dorset charity that offers one to one support, free of charge, 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 lives. We provide several different types of support including an Independent Sexual Violence Advisor Service, Counselling, a Children and Young People's Service and a Helpline.

Independent Sexual Violence Advisor Service

Independent Sexual Violence Advisor Service: this service provides practical and emotional support, information and guidance to those in Dorset who have experienced any form of sexual violence. Our Independent Sexual Violence Advisors are here to help clients make an informed decision about their options when everything can feel confusing and out of control.

Counselling Service

Counselling Service: this service provides one to one trauma informed counselling, for anyone who has experienced any form of sexual violence in their life. We operate a person-centred counselling approach combined with a trauma model. We create a safe and confidential space allowing the client to explore and address thoughts and behaviours that are overwhelming.

Children and Young People Service

Children and Young People Service: we also provide dedicated counselling and a specialist Independent Sexual Violence Advisor service specifically for children and young people. We provide impartial advice to the young person, their families or carers about their options and a safe space where they can talk about their feelings and the impact of their experience.

Helpline Service

Helpline Service: our Helpline service provides a confidential , non-judgemental listening service to anyone over 16 who has been affected by any form of sexual violence. All our Helpline volunteers are fully trained and will listen in complete confidence no matter how big or small a problem may seem. The Helpline number is 01202 308855.

STARS Dorset does not work with anyone who has perpetrated sexual violence.

Latest

Working with Dissociation and DID with Philippa Dryland CPD Event

CPD Workshop 'Working with Dissociation and Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) in Survivors of Complex Early Life Trauma and Abuse with Philippa Dryland on Wednesday 6th May at the Life Centre in Bournemouth.
Fire Walk

In a nutshell - I have witnessed the difference this charity makes to people's lives and the need is growing.
The problematic use of past sexual history as evidence in rape trials

The problematic use of past sexual history as evidence in rape trials by Kez Bhola-Dare, 2ND Year Law Student, Bournemouth University, and Jamie Fletcher, Lecturer in Law, Bournemouth University. Whilst there are a range of sexual assault myths that can influence rape trials, this blog focuses on the myth that a women’s sexual history is an indicator of consent to the act in question.
The STARS Dorset Consent Team

In this blog by Simone Gosden, Volunteer Co-ordinator for STARS Dorset, we look at the work our Consent Team does across Dorset and the issues of consent..

Make a referral

Those wishing to access any of our services can either ask a professional they already receive support from to refer on their behalf or make a self-referral.
Support STARS

At STARS Dorset all our services are provided free of charge, one of the only ways this is possible is through donations. Every donation however small can help make a huge difference.

The problematic use of past sexual history as evidence in rape trials

The problematic use of past sexual history as evidence in rape trials by Kez Bhola-Dare, 2ND Year Law Student, Bournemouth University, and Jamie Fletcher, Lecturer in Law, Bournemouth University. Whilst there are a range of sexual assault myths that can influence rape trials, this blog focuses on the myth that a women’s sexual history is an indicator of consent to the act in question.
'Asking For It' by Jayne Jackson

Jayne Jackson a MA Commercial Photography student from Arts University Bournemouth has created a fascinating photographic art series named ‘Asking for it’, which in a highly unique and clever way highlights victim blaming in cases of sexual violence. The exhibition which consists of 14 ‘mugshots’ will be on display at The Atrium Gallery at Bournemouth University from 7th May - 20th June 2020
Contact Us

Our contact details, how to get in touch.
What we do

STARS Dorset is a pan-Dorset charity that offers one to one support, free of charge, 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 lives.
Jade’s Fire Walk

I will be walking on fire to raise money for STARS DORSET, a local charity to help support victims of Sexual Trauma
Support STARS

At STARS Dorset all our services are provided free of charge, one of the only ways this is possible is through donations. Every donation however small can help make a huge difference.
Working with Dissociation and DID with Philippa Dryland CPD Event

CPD Workshop 'Working with Dissociation and Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) in Survivors of Complex Early Life Trauma and Abuse with Philippa Dryland on Wednesday 6th May at the Life Centre in Bournemouth.
Training

STARS Dorset offers a comprehensive range of training courses for those working with or supporting survivors of sexual violence. Our training has been developed from our knowledge and experience of providing a range of specialist support services for over thirty years. We offer both Employer Awareness Training and Professionals Training.
Make a referral

Those wishing to access any of our services can either ask a professional they already receive support from to refer on their behalf or make a self-referral.
The STARS Dorset Consent Team

In this blog by Simone Gosden, Volunteer Co-ordinator for STARS Dorset, we look at the work our Consent Team does across Dorset and the issues of consent..