Burton young professionals step up as SARAC ambassadors
In a remarkable show of unity and compassion, several Burton Chamber of Commerce members have stepped forward as ambassadors for SARAC (Sexual Abuse Rape Advice Centre), lending their voices to a cause that is vital for both individuals and the wider community.
SARAC, established in 1994, has grown from a small helpline run from a volunteer’s bedroom into a dedicated centre providing specialist trauma-informed support, education and advocacy.
Originally focused on supporting women, SARAC has since expanded its services to all individuals over the age of 11, offering stabilisation support, therapeutic services and training that empowers survivors and educates future generations.
For the new ambassadors, the decision to support SARAC is rooted deeply in both professional responsibility and personal conviction.
Imran Ahmed, IT Helpdesk, said: “I wanted to become an ambassador for SARAC because I am passionate about supporting my community and helping people feel less alone. Mental health is something that touches everyone in different ways, and I believe education is one of the most powerful tools we have to break down stigma and create real change.”
Stuart Lilley, Mint Technology, echoed this sentiment: “Becoming an ambassador for SARAC is a powerful way to contribute to community healing. SARAC provides critical support to victims of sexual abuse through counselling, legal advice, and advocacy, focusing on empowerment and rebuilding hope.”
For others, the drive to join SARAC’s mission is a response to the stark reality of sexual violence.
Blu Hardy, Hardy Signs, shared: “The statistics around sexual violence in our communities are not just numbers; they are lives forever changed, and the reality of those figures haunts me. Too many suffer in silence and far too often, the support and education that could prevent such trauma are overlooked. That’s why I’ve chosen to stand alongside SARAC.”
Sophie Allen, Serrano Media, added: “Sexual violence is all too common and in some ways has become normalised. The fact that so many have to endure it is heartbreaking. This was my drive to become an ambassador – to advocate, to create positive change and to assist an incredible, life-changing charity that helps people heal, regain their power and know they’re not alone.”
These heartfelt commitments reflect the Chamber’s wider role in amplifying SARAC’s voice and encouraging businesses to get involved. With two of the ambassadors (Sophie and Blu) representing the Chamber’s Future Faces division, the next generation of business leaders are already stepping up to make a difference.
The Chamber’s support has also opened doors for wider community awareness. From SARAC’s “one-stop-shop” fundraising guide to its corporate training programmes, businesses far and wide now have more opportunities than ever to contribute.
Corporate training not only equips workplaces to better support their staff, but also funds preventative education in schools; helping safeguard the next generation.
SARAC’s vision is simple yet profound: a world free from sexual violence. Its mission is to provide trauma-informed support and education to all affected, ensuring no one has to face their journey alone as well as directly supporting victims both within Burton and its surrounding areas.
To learn more about SARAC, access fundraising guides or explore training opportunities for your business, visit: Support SARAC.
Together, through community, business and compassion, we can help build a safer, more supportive future.
Pictured: The SARAC ambassadors
