Helen Britton House is a Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC). Providing services for all of Teesside Helen Britton House is located in an accessible and convenient site close to major roads and bus routes. Helen Britton House is comfortably furnished and aims to create a relaxing environment where survivors of rape and sexual assault can be supported.

First and foremost Helen Britton House is about offering you choices. After an experience of sexual violence you may be left feeling shocked and confused (see feelings link).

You may not have decided what, if any action you may want to take. The options may seem confusing and difficult (see the options link for further details) Helen Britton House will give you the support and space you need to find the option that’s right for you.

We understand how frightening it can be to have to think about dealing with Police and Courts at this stage when you may not have decided what you want to do.

We can in some cases store evidence on your behalf to give you the time you need to make an informed decision that’s right for you. Helen Britton House is committed to ensuring that you remain in control at all stages- whatever route you chose. 

You do not have to report to the police to access our service.

The centre is fully equipped to meet all of your immediate needs following a sexual assault. If you want to report to the Police we can provide a forensic examination, offer showering facilities and provide you with new clothing should this be required.

Most importantly the centre is staffed by specialist trained people who can support you with both practical and emotional issues and to help you to remain in control.

Helen Britton House was developed in partnership with Cleveland Police, Health and specialist’s sexual violence services within the voluntary sector.

The partnership was developed with the aim of providing a comprehensive service to all victims that would ensure that the complex health, emotional and practical needs of victims can be responded to within one location. We work to best practise guidelines as set out by the Home Office.

The centre opened in September 2007 and was named after a local woman who devoted her working life to helping those affected by sexual violence.

Sadly Helen Britton lost her own battle against cancer in November 2006 and it was felt appropriate that the SARC for Teesside be named after her as tribute to her work.