Safe Browsing
Rape is a vastly underreported crime.
90% of perpetrators are known to survivors and often survivors choose not to report to the police due to the many myths that exist in society or they may fear for theirs or a loved ones safety if they were to report to the police.
A survivor may not feel ready right now to report to the police but a SARC provides options for a survivor for if they are ready in the future to report to the police, to have that evidence and statement on file.
What is SARC?
- Sexual Assault Referral Centres are specialist independent centres for survivors of rape or serious sexual assault. Their role is first and foremost to help the survivor both physically and emotionally.
- To be seen by a SARC you will need to call to make a self-referral
- They will complete a survivor’s Forensic Medical Examination (FME)
- Following the forensic medical examination (FME) the survivor will be able to have a shower in a private bathroom and will be given their own personal toiletries kit. They will also be provided with a brand new set of clothes which will consist of underwear, t-shirt, fleece joggers and a fleece sweatshirt.
- They will be able to signpost the survivor to an ISVA to address any needs the survivor may disclose.
- Survivors of rape or sexual assault can attend a SARC if they have been subjected to Sexual Violence within the last 10 days.
They are Open 24/7/365 days a year. Anything post 10 days, each SARC will have an individual policy for process of FME. If you call them, they will let you know.
- It can take a long time for a survivor to have the strength and courage to report to the police therefore a SARC can keep a survivor’s forensic evidence for a long time (some up to 10 years) whilst the survivor decides whether or not they want to report to the police.
- All SARCs have a police interview suite if the survivor wishes to report.
