Orkney Rape Crisis has welcomed the improvements to support for victims of rape and sexual violence announced by the Scottish Government.

£2million has been allocated for the first national standards for forensic medical examinations.

Zelda Bradley, Support and Development Manager at Orkney Rape Crisis said:

“The first national standards for forensic medical examinations in Scotland were released today and were informed by feedback from survivor’s experience.

“The standards will ensure that survivors – regardless of age, circumstances or geographical location – will experience a level of care to a high standard that aims to reduce the likelihood of further trauma.

“There is the potential here to transform the support received after a rape or sexual assault. We welcome £2.25 million funding to help NHS Boards implement the new standards which should ensure a consistent service across Scotland, including the isles.

“Orkney Rape Crisis looks forward to working in partnership with NHS Orkney and other agencies, in the new year, to develop a local forensic service for Orkney. “

The new standards include:

• providing the opportunity to request a female examiner
• treating individuals with privacy, dignity, respect and sensitivity
• providing a comfortable and welcoming setting for examinations)
• talking through the process, including follow up healthcare
• enabling and supporting the person having some control over the process

Michael Matheson Justice Secretary in the Scottish Government  said:

“These standards will ensure consistency in approach to healthcare and forensic medical services and will reinforce the high-quality care anyone should expect after experiencing rape or sexual assault.

“It is our ambition to ensure that person-centred care is provided across both the health and justice system for victims, and improving forensic medical examinations is an important step in this work.”

Orkney Rape Crisis Service contact details

Sexual violence affects more people in our community that we imagine. Confidential support and advocacy for anyone from age 13. Whether recent or long ago. Whether you report or choose not to. We believe you.

Mon – Fri 9.30-4.30pm

contact@orkneyrapecrisis.scot

www.orkneyrapecrisis.scot or call

Rape Crisis Scotland Helpline 08088 01 03 02 6pm till midnight