A SARC is a Sexual Assault Referral Centre that provides services to people who have experienced rape or other sexual offences regardless of whether or not they have reported to the police. SARC s are designed to be comfortable environments with a relaxed atmosphere and also have interviewing and examination facilities.
Specialist trained staff at the SARC are able to discuss the options available to you helping you to make an informed choice with regards to what happens next. Staff will then support you through whichever process you choose.
Most SARC s are able to arrange for a doctor to obtain medical samples which can then be stored to provide you with time to decide whether or not you wish to report to the police. The doctor can if necessary provide emergency contraception and antibiotic treatment at the SARC
If you have reported to the Police the specialist trained Police Officer will normally bring you to the SARC as a matter of course and this will give you access to SARC support staff and ongoing services.
Other services available from SARCs can include referral and support into specialist services such as; sexual health clinics, longer term counselling and referral to advisors who provide support if a case is going to court. These referrals will only be made with your permission to do so.
*With the exception of some specific areas of concern, for example, where a child is at risk of harm. This will be explained to you by staff at the SARC.
