Victim centred care - Sexual Assault Referral Centres

There is a growing demand for the establishment of Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs), providing support for communities through partnerships with local Primary Care Trusts (PCTs) and the Police

SARCs provide a single, safe location where victims of sexual assault can receive medical care and counselling, as well as assisting Police investigation into alleged offences.  They include facilities suitable for a high standard of forensic examination.

G4S were involved in establishing Hope House in Gloucestershire, one of the first SARCs in the country to be connected to a hospital and its sexual health services.  This allows victims of rape and sexual assault to access medical care, counselling, advice and support, as well as Police services, in a secure, caring and confidential environment. 

We also provide a confidential call centre so victims of sexual assaults can report offences anonymously.

G4S Forensic and Medical Services worked closely with Gloucestershire Police Authority and Gloucestershire NHS PCT in the development of Hope House SARC, advising on medical room layout, build quality, supply, storage, kits, medication, policies and procedures.  We also provide a dedicated team of over ten female Sexual Offence Examiners.

G4S’ clinical expertise and partnership ethos have delivered similar successes in a number of other counties around the UK, and we have been instrumental in establishing and delivering services to a number of SARCs.  These centres play an essential role in providing victim centred care and strengthening the trust and confidence those living and working in the community have in the Police and local health providers.

For more information contact Andy Catlin, Business Development Director, G4S Forensic and Medical Services.  Email: g4sis@uk.g4s.com.