Birmingham-based GINA, a private sexual trauma-crisis organization, has been awarded nearly £20,000 from the Young Gamechangers Fund to expand its support services for survivors of sexual violence. This funding, provided by the Co-op Foundation and delivered by Restless Development and Global Fund for Children, will allow GINA to offer immediate in-person, online, and telephone counselling for those who have experienced sexual trauma.
According to recent statistics, sexual violence-related crimes have risen by 37%, and many young survivors are facing severe mental health challenges. GINA, which is led entirely by young people with lived experience of sexual trauma, aims to address this issue by providing specialized support services and empowering survivors to heal, raise awareness, and campaign for change.
Monica Tolosa Tejedor, GINA’s Support Lead, expressed gratitude for the funding, stating that it will allow the organization to expand its reach and impact. GINA’s Leadership Team, composed of young women aged 23, 25, and 27 with extensive experience in the sexual violence support sector, leads a team of 30 activists, all of whom have lived experience. The organization aims to reflect the diversity of the young survivors it supports, including those from LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, ethnic minority, and disabled communities, as well as those from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds who may face barriers to accessing mental health support.
Through this funding, GINA plans to continue challenging societal norms, providing safe and compassionate spaces for survivors, and building a community-driven movement where young survivors are heard, valued, and empowered. This news was distributed by https://pressat.co.uk/ on Friday, 11 April, 2025.
