News

Inside a sexual assault referral centre (SARC)

Behind a discreet door at Crawley Hospital, staff from the Sussex Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) offer help and support to people who have been raped or sexually assaulted.

The centre is called Saturn and the number of people walking through its door is increasing each year. In 2015/2016 the team of specially trained doctors, nurses and counsellors provided medical, emotional and practical support to 645 women, men and young people.

The team offer a 24 hour, 7 day a week service in a safe, caring, non-clinical environment where people can talk in total confidence about their experience and receive help, whether the police are involved or not.

Centre manager Stacy Jutson said:
“The Saturn centre provides advice and support for anyone who has experienced sexual assault or rape, so we can explain the various options which are available and support people with their own choices. Above all else we are here to make sure they are treated with dignity and respect at all times.”
The Saturn Centre is equipped to gather the most comprehensive forensic evidence, offer advice on sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy, and provide counselling and help throughout a legal process. This support is also on offer to those people who decide they don’t want to press charges or who may have been assaulted many years ago.

Each person who comes to the centre is assigned a crisis worker.

Louisa Ellis, Crisis Support Worker said:
“It’s their job to make sure the people who come to us have all the information they need to make an informed decision about the options open to them. Above all else the crisis worker is there to make sure they are treated with dignity and respect at all times.”

The Sussex SARC is funded by NHS England and the Police and Crime Commissioner for Sussex.

Vanessa Fowler, Head of Health and Justice Commissioning for NHS England in the South East said:
“The services provided by the SARC are excellent. People who have experienced sexual assault are often understandably extremely distressed. This centre ensures everyone has access to the dedicated medical and support services they need which can help them in both the short and long term.”

Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne said:
“Rape and sexual assault has a devastating impact and leaves victims at their most vulnerable. That’s why it’s vital that we spread the word about Saturn and the important work that its staff do so that those affected can get help and support at the right time whether they choose to report it to the police or not.”