New national campaign to raise awareness of sexual assault referral centres (SARCs)

Written by AlisonFreemantle on Wednesday 9th February 2022

Commissioned by NHSE&I and police and crime commissioners, for people who have been raped, sexually assaulted or abused

Since the start of COVID-19, there has been a significant increase in the number of people ringing domestic and sexual abuse helplines and accessing online support. In recognition of this and as part of a cross Government commitment to tackle hidden harms arising from the pandemic, the NHS is raising awareness of SARCs and encouraging victims and survivors of sexual assault and abuse to seek help. 

Sexual assault referral centres - or SARCs - provide a safe space and dedicated care, through the NHS, for people who have been raped, sexually assaulted or abused and are for everyone, regardless of when the incident happened. They are located across the country and offer specialist practical, medical and emotional support 24/7.

SARCs offer a range of services, including crisis care, medical and forensic examinations, emergency contraception and testing for sexually transmitted infections. They can also arrange access to an independent sexual violence advisor, as well as referrals to mental health support and voluntary sector sexual violence support services.

This awareness campaign will include national and regional activity, social media advertising and stakeholder engagement. A range of digital resources will be available for partners on the Campaign resource centre including key messages, video content, posters, and social media assets.

Campaign objectives

The strategic aim of the SARCs campaign is to increase use of SARCs by people who need them.

The communications objectives of the campaign are:

  1. Awareness: Increase the percentage of the target audience who know that SARCs exist
  2. Knowledge: Increase the target audience’s knowledge of the range and services of SARCs and how to access them
  3. Behavioural intent: Increase the percentage of the target audience who claim they would access a SARC if they had a need to
  4. Outcome: Increase the number of survivors  of sexual assault and abuse supported through a SARC

Visit nhs.uk/SARCs to find your nearest sexual assault referral centre.

 

 

 

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