NHS launches campaign to support survivors of sexual assault and abuse

The NHS has launched a campaign to raise awareness of sexual assault referral centres (SARCs) – specialist services that offer free care and support to anyone who has been raped, sexually assaulted or abused at any time in their life.

SARCs are available 24/7 across England, however, many sexual assault and abuse survivors do not know where to go or who to turn to for help. We also know that some people are put off seeking help due to thinking they need to speak to the police. Help is available from a SARC without having to talk to the police or report what happened.

The SARC team will make sure that anyone visiting their service understands their options and gets the support they choose in a place where they are safe. This could include crisis care, medical and forensic medical examinations, emergency contraception and testing for sexually transmitted infections. They can also arrange access to an independent sexual violence advisor, as well as referrals to mental health services and emotional and psychological support, such as counselling.

If you have been raped, sexually assaulted or abused and don’t know where to turn, you can contact Nottinghamshire’s Topaz Centre or search ‘sexual assault referral centres’ for more information or visit www.nhs.uk/SARCs.