What is a SARC?

A Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) is a specialist facility where recent victims/survivors of rape or sexual assault can receive immediate help and support at any time (24/7).

This video animation describes the help and support available within a SARC, based on the experiences of victims and survivors of sexual assault and abuse as told in their own words.

What is an ISVA?

An ISVA is an Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVAs). They support you with deciding on whether to report what has happened to the police.

They have expert knowledge of criminal justice processes, and can help you understand your entitlements under the Victims Code of Practice, and what to expect.

No matter which option you choose, an ISVA can work with you to develop a support plan to meet your needs.

If you choose to report, ISVAs will provide support before, during and after any potential court case. They are independent of any other organisation or agency, including the police.

What happens at a SARC?

Once a referral has been received, a crisis worker will arrange to meet you at the SARC.

You can bring a friend or family member with you for support. SARC has a friends and family room and drink facilities, so if you bring someone with you, they can wait comfortably.

When you arrive

Upon arrival, a crisis worker will meet you, talk you through your options and support you through the process. This is all done at your pace. The choices are always yours, and New Pathways will support you with whichever options you choose.

During your visit

They will listen and they will believe you.

The crisis workers will make sure you have the right information and support, whether you choose to have police involvement or not.

As an adult, you do not have to speak to the police to access New Pathways. One of the crisis workers or ISVAs can talk through your options.

They can also support you through a forensic medical examination with a trained doctor at the premises.

What support can I access?

You may decide that you want counselling and support without reporting to the police. They will give you the information you need to be make an informed decision on which option is right for you.

They can also offer first aid and advice; medical aftercare and referrals for treatment of sexually transmitted disease (STIs); sexual health guidance; and specialist support in the days, weeks and months after, including wellbeing support, counselling and ISVA support.

This includes, if you choose - access to a forensic medical examination, which is carried out by an experienced and qualified doctor, and the opportunity to speak to the police about what has happened.

SARC clients also receive help and advice from a Crisis Worker who can offer to support them and stay with them throughout the process.

What happens during the Forensic Medical Examination?

If it is appropriate, you may be offered a forensic medical examination. This is carried out by a qualified and experienced doctor known as a forensic medical examiner or FME.

An examination is to gather any forensic evidence that may be available. This may include making a record of injuries and collecting any DNA evidence.

A crisis worker will explain the process and show you the examination room beforehand if you wish and will be with you to support you through the process. You can choose to stop or take a break at any time.

We understand that this is an intimate process, and the crisis worker and the FME will do everything possible to make you feel comfortable and answer any questions you may have. You can also choose to have a family member or friend accompany you instead of the crisis worker.

What happens after the exam?

Following the exam, you will be able to have a shower in a private bathroom, you will be given your own personal toiletries kit, and clothing.

What happens if I decide to do an interview?

If you choose to make a report to the police, this can take place at the SARC without the need to go to a police station. New Pathways have a comfortable interview room with discreet recording facilities.

The interview can take place straight away, or the following day. During the interview, you may request for the crisis worker to be present.

They will not be able to speak for you during the interview, but you may find it more comfortable to have them there as a support.

Most police forces now have a dedicated team of officers who investigate sexual offences, and they are approachable, very experienced in this field and sensitive to your needs.