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