When you visit a SARC, you will be offered a medical assessment with forensic options.
This is entirely your choice, but having the forensic assessment may help if you wish to report your assault to the police at any time.
What is a Forensic Medical Assessment?
A forensic medical assessment is an examination where samples are collected that may contain DNA after a sexual assault. Having this assessment is your choice. You do not have to have one, but it can help collect evidence if you decide to involve the police.
The assessment is also a chance to talk about other important issues, such as your health, emergency contraception, and protection from sexually transmitted infections.
You may not be ready, or want, to report your assault to the police, but a forensic assessment will allow any useful DNA or evidence to be stored until such time.
What happens in a Forensic Medical Assessment?
The assessment takes place in a specialist Sexual Assault Referral Centre. The staff are trained to support you and will guide you through everything.
The examination is carried out by a doctor or nurse who is specially trained in sexual assault care.
They will ask some questions about your health, the assault, and any recent sexual activity. This helps them decide what care and tests you may need. We understand – and it is completely normal – that you might feel uncomfortable about the examination, but every effort is made to ensure you are as comfortable as possible and understand what is happening and why.
They will check for injuries and may take samples, such as swabs from anywhere you have been touched. They may also ask for consent to take urine, blood and sometimes hair samples. In some cases they may ask to keep items such as clothing and other items.
You are in control
The assessment is done at your pace. Everything will be explained to you, and you can choose what you are comfortable with. You can say no to any part of the examination, and you can change your mind at any time. Your choices will always be respected.
Why should I have a Forensic Medical Assessment?
Forensic examinations are only ever carried out with your consent.
If you wish to report your sexual assault to the police, then forensic medical examinations can help to collect useful forensic samples that can be used as evidence.
If you are unsure whether or not you wish to report to the police, any evidence samples taken can be stored in our centres until such time you feel you want to report the assault.
The assessments are also an opportunity for our specialist nurses to discuss any further concerns with you and talk about other important issues, such as your health, emergency contraception, and protection from sexually transmitted infections.