WYCOMBE Rape Crisis has been given a three-month lifeline as it was handed cash last week.

The charity, which supports women and girls over 16 who have suffered rape or sexual abuse, said it feared for its future as running costs are around £100,000 a year.

But the charity, based in the Priory Centre, Priory Road, High Wycombe, has now been handed a £26,750 grant from the Home Office.

This now means that its debt has been reduced to around £73,250 and services can be run for a further three months.

The grant will enable the charity to take on a new outreach support worker and train more volunteer counsellors.

Christina Diamandopoulos, director, said she hoped the grant would be one of many because the charity was always struggling.

She said: "It is great and it was really good that it came from the Government because it shows they are starting to take sexual crimes more seriously.

"We are applying all the time for grants. We hope more people will come forward with funds because we are an effective and worthwhile charity."

Home office minister, Gerry Sutcliffe, said: "I am determined that the needs of victims of crime must be better met and this funding is part of a wider programme of Government initiatives to put the needs of those affected by crime central in the criminal justice system."

The charity also offers a helpline, information and advice and self-help groups.

If you want to support it with funds or volunteer to help the charity call them on 01494 462222