NORTH-East rape victims face a postcode lottery in the quality of treatment they receive, according to Government research.

The Home Office study, published yesterday, found the best level of services is provided by specialist sexual assault referral centres (Sarcs), of which there are only eight in the UK.

The report praised the work of three Sarcs, including Reach (Rape, Examination, Advice, Counselling and Help), which operates two facilities, in Newcastle and Sunderland.

The service was started in 1986 and provides medical examination, counselling, support and advice services under one roof.

Detective Superintendent Mike Jones, of Northumbria Police, said: "We welcome this research which recognises the work we're doing.

"The more units we get working, the more effective it will be and better for the victims of sex crimes."

Reach is currently the only Sarc in the North-East, although there are plans to open another on Teesside.

Cleveland Police was awarded funding last year but is still trying to identify a site for the centre.

As well as providing better treatment for victims, the Home Office report said Sarcs improve rape conviction rates because specialist staff gather evidence.

They also reduce the number of cases where a woman withdraws an allegation before getting to court.

But most victims do not have access to such services, the study concludes.

Sixteen Sarcs are due to be in place by the autumn, but the report called for the number to be doubled.

Vera Baird, MP for Redcar and a legal expert on sexual offences, said she was not surprised by the findings.

"Where there is a Sarc, you are guaranteed good treatment but where there isn't, you have to take your chances."

The Government has pledged to expand the network of centres and said it was committed to improving services.