New joint head for Rotherham abuse survivors' support service

THERE is a new face at the helm of the lifeline service which supports abuse survivors in Rotherham.

She succeeds Natalie Thompson, who has moved to Northamptonshire to set up a new charity supporting children in care and care leavers. 

Angela has more than 15 years of experience working in the voluntary sector, specifically with victims of domestic abuse and sexual exploitation. 

She will head up the organisation jointly with clinical lead, Gaynor Smith.

Angela said: “Rothacs is unique in that we offer free specialist one-to-one therapeutic counselling to survivors of abuse including child sexual exploitation.  

“Many clients are desperate and suicidal when they turn to the organisation for help. 

“We are completely dependent on funding from outside sources and a key priority for me over the coming months will be to try to attract funding to secure our future. 

“I hope to be able to continue the great work of Natalie, bringing my skills and experience to this post and providing further longevity for this amazing and much needed service for the people of Rotherham.”

Natalie said:  “I was very proud to be part of the amazing team at Rothacs, who carry out life saving work with clients who often have nowhere else to turn to.  

“I wish Angela and the team every success in meeting the needs of survivors in Rotherham.”

Rothacs, based in Moorgate, is a registered charity and a member of the Survivors’ Trust and the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. 

Clients are referred by health professionals, including GPs, and other agencies, or can refer themselves, to see highly-trained counsellors who speak six languages between them.