Coventry Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre (Crasac) has been forced to close its waiting list to anyone over the age of 13. It is the only specialist service of its kind in Coventry. It has made this decision because the council has slashed its funding.
100 protesters gathered outside the council’s budget meeting, urging them not to carry out cuts. The Labour council has imposed cuts and charges on Coventry residents to cover a £20 million budget gap.
Victims of sexual violence bluntly said at the protest that if Crasac hadn’t supported them, they may not be alive. The cuts come with a 4.99% rise in council tax, alongside cuts in council tax payment support, in a city of mass poverty, where many still rely on foodbanks.
The protest had the banners of trade unions Unite, Unison, NEU and UCU. Socialist Party member Jane Nellist spoke on behalf of Coventry Trades Union Council.
Labour isn’t listening to Coventry’s workers, so we need our own candidates in the election. We sent a petition round the protest – ‘Help us stand anti-austerity and anti-war candidates’ – taking 15 sign-ups, including from Crasac volunteers.
Coventry Trade Unionist and Socialist Coaliton (TUSC) is hoping to challenge all 18 seats in the council elections. 13 are already in place.
TUSC is seeking candidates and other support from socialists, trade unionists, and anti-cuts campaigners. If you’re in Coventry, or nearby, and want to help our campaign, get in touch.
Adam Harmsworth, Coventry Socialist Party
