Reporting to the Police
- If you need medical attention immediately, ensure the health professional knows that you want to report to enable them to ensure forensic evidence is kept.
- Contact the police immediately so they can arrange a forensic examination as soon as possible. They will want to get as much evidence as possible.
- Forensic evidence is important to try not to wash, eat or drink or brush your teeth.
- If you want to change clothes, make sure you put the clothes they were wearing in a plastic bag to give to the police.
- If you think that you may have been drugged or your drink ‘spiked’ tell the police immediately and they will arrange for blood and urine tests.
The Police will make a decision if a forensic examination is needed and if they do this is what happens during a forensic examination
Forensic Examinations
Examinations is likely to take place at the local SARC where you also receive support from heath care professionals. You can find out more on the website
Examinations is likely to take place at the local SARC where you also receive support from heath care professionals. You can find out more on the website
1, What do you need to bring with you?
All Clothing you were wearing at the time including:
- pants
- bra
- belt
- Any used condom and wrapper
- sanitary wear that you were using at the time
- If the assault involved forced oral sex and you have brushed your teeth since the incident bring the toothbrush.
If you are still wearing the clothes you were wearing at the assault bring a change of clothes for after the examination.
2, What will happen when you arrive?
You will meet a specially trained nurse and a sexual offences examiner (a doctor)
The nurse will talk through with you the choices that you have. The nurse will also offer you any treatment you may need, such as basic first aid and emergency contraception. She may discuss other treatment such as vaccinations or post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) to reduce the risk of HIV infection.
You will be at the examination centre for about 2 to 3 hours. Most of this will be talking and listening to you to make sure you get what you need. The forensic medical examination only takes a short time and
3, The forensic examination
You will be asked you to remove your clothing and you will get a disposable modesty gown and blanket/sheet to keep you covered during the exam. The clinicians will take a note of any injuries on your body such as abrasions, fingerprint bruising or any cuts and document them thoroughly.
They will take swabs from intimate areas such as breasts, the vaginal area and/or the back passage. There are swabs that are taken internally with the use of a speculum- in the vagina, and a proctoscope - in the bottom. The proctoscope is in for seconds only.
It is likely that DNA will be found that places the accused in contact with you. This is part of corroboration.
It may be that you will be asked for a blood sample, and this is only for forensic purposes. This can establish if there are any other substances in your system, such as alcohol and drugs, including prescribed medications.
4, After the Examination
At the end, you will be offered medication to prevent conception if you want it, and an information pack about Rape Crisis, and also, the Sexual Health clinics on offer that can support you and how to organise to have testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
You will have a dedicated number to call to make an appointment at Chalmers Centre or you can go and see your own GP, so that you can choose the best option for you.
These tests are performed 14 days after the assault and can be performed at Chalmers Centre or at your GP. You will be given a leaflet that explains more about these infections and how to access the services.
There is a shower room in most facilities, and sanitary products and fresh underwear are available.