Vital Signs MK 2025 - Report - Page 8
Crime & Safety
Sexual Assault and Abuse Support
Service for Buckinghamshire and
Milton Keynes (SAASSBMK)
SAASSBMK has been providing vital support, advice and
counselling to individuals a昀昀ected by sexual violence since
1995. Its mission is to empower survivors and their loved ones
to address the trauma and su昀昀ering caused by sexual assault
and abuse, including non-recent and childhood experiences.
The data behind the alleged perpetrators across Milton Keynes
and Buckinghamshire, provided by SAASSBMK, challenges the
common misconception that women are primarily attacked by
strangers.
In fact, the majority of cases (30.07%) involved intimate
relationships, highlighting the regularity of harm within
close personal connections. Family members accounted
for 22.18% of cases, and acquaintances represented
15.82%, reinforcing that most incidents occur within
familiar or trusted circles.
By contrast, strangers were involved in only 7.44% of
cases, a reminder that the narrative of ‘stranger danger’
often overshadows the reality of harm caused within
personal relationships. Overall, 92% of perpetrators of
sexual violence were known to the survivor, emphasising
the urgent need to address violence within relationships and
community contexts.
These 昀椀ndings underscore the importance of addressing
violence within relationships, whilst challenging the myth
that strangers pose the greatest threat.
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Vital Signs MK - 12th Edition 2025
MK ACT
MK Act is a charity that works with over 100 families every
day to help them move on from fear and abuse. Supporting
more than 2,000 people each year to 昀氀ee domestic abuse,
the charity has been providing safe emergency
accommodation in Milton Keynes for nearly 50 years.
In response to growing demand, MK Act has observed a sharp
rise in individuals reaching out for help. “We are seeing a
signi昀椀cant increase in the number of individuals contacting our
crisis team, as well as a rise in referrals into the service from
professionals and agencies in Milton Keynes. Additionally, the
complexity of the cases we are supporting continues to grow.”
This re昀氀ects not only the increasing prevalence of domestic
abuse but also the need for specialised, long-term support.
The charity’s refuge accommodation, which operates
at full capacity, plays a crucial role in protecting those at the
greatest risk.
“The domestic abuse refuge accommodation in Milton
Keynes is available for those at the greatest risk. It
operates at full capacity, providing a safe residence
and essential support services for families in need.”
Sue Burke, CEO, MK ACT
With violent crime and sexual o昀昀ences remaining a key
concern in the community, organisations like MK Act provide
an essential lifeline, ensuring that survivors have the safety
and support they need to rebuild their lives.
