A COVENTRY woman who helped a sexual abuse victim muster up the courage to make a formal complaint has been presented with the prestigious Chief Constable’s Award from West Midlands Police.
Kiran Birdi, who works as an Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (ISVA) at the Coventry Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre (CRASAC) was given the award to recognise her ongoing support throughout a criminal investigation and court procedure.
Chief Constable Craig Guildford recommended Kiran for the award in recognition of the ‘outstanding’ support she gave to a victim of sexual abuse.
Her work gave the victim the courage to make a formal complaint, and the offender was sentenced to a life term in June 2022.
Chief Constable Guildford also praised her for her commitment to ensuring the best outcomes for her clients.
An Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (ISVA) is a specialist who offers emotional, practical and advocacy support to improve the experiences of victims and survivors.
CRASAC provides independent, impartial and specialist support to adults and children impacted by sexual violence and abuse.
Kiran said: “It has been a privilege to receive this award after what hasn’t been an easy journey for my client to get to the point where she has finally received the justice she deserved.
“I am one of a team of ISVAs at CRASAC who work tirelessly to advocate on behalf of hundreds of victims and survivors of sexual violence with the police and other services to ensure they get the best possible support.”
