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Support after rape or sexual assault
Rape and sexual assault are types of sexual violence. It happens when someone does not consent to a sexual act.
You can be raped or sexually assaulted by a stranger or someone you know. It can happen to anyone.
It may have happened recently or a long time ago. It can happen once or often.
What you can do
Self refer to a Sexual Assault Response Coordination Service (SARCS)
If you’ve been raped or sexually assaulted within the last 7 days and do not want to tell the police or are unsure about telling them, you can self-refer to a SARCS. SARCS offer healthcare and support and you do not need a doctor to refer you, you can do this yourself.
You can find more information about how to self-refer to a SARCS, and the telephone number to call to speak to a trained healthcare professional on the NHS inform website. The helpline is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
The leaflet Turn to SARCS gives more information on:
- your options available following a rape or sexual assault
- how to self-refer to a SARCS
- what to expect during and following a Forensic Medical Examination
Report it to the police
You can report a rape or sexual assault at any time by:
- calling 999 if it's an emergency situation
- calling 101
- visit the Police Scotland website
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