Here at FRASAC we understand how difficult it can be to make sense of what has happened and to make a report to the police in the aftermath of a traumatic sexual assault, so we are delighted that self-referral is now available through the Sexual Assault Response Co-ordination Service (SARCS).
This means that if you have been raped or assaulted and you are aged 16 years or over, you can have a forensic examination carried out without having to report to the police first. The evidence from your forensic examination can be kept for a period of up to 26 months, during this time if you decide to report your rape or assault to the police, this will be available to them to use as evidence. Click here to access a leaflet on the new service.
How to access the service:
Click here Turn to SARCS | NHS inform or call 0800 148 8888.
Calls are free from landlines and mobiles.
What will happen when I call:
You will be asked for some basic information such as your name and date of birth and a contact number. You will also be asked if you are safe and have any injuries that require medical attention, the date the assault happened and the area you live in.
After your initial call, you will receive a call back from a healthcare professional who will ask you for some information about what has happened. From here they can also arrange for a forensic examination if you choose to have one carried out. You can ask to bring someone with you to your appointment and if you require an interpreter this can be arranged. It is possible to request an examination in a different area to where you live if needed.
Click here to see a video explaining the service.
Here at FRASAC, we can support you in accessing this service. We can also provide emotional support whether you decide to have a forensic examination carried out or not and if you subsequently wish to report to the police. Call us on 01592 642336, we are here for you, we believe you.
You can also access the service by calling the Rape Crisis Scotland Helpline on 08088 01 03 02. The helpline is open from 5pm to midnight daily and provide help and support to anyone who has been affected by a sexual assault. Click here to access the Rape Crisis leaflet Information After Sexual Assault including information on self referral.
