FAQs for victims returning home who have been raped abroad
Posted on June 23, 2009
Filed Under General News
Now I am home who should I report it to?
If you wish to report what has happened to the Police – ring or attend your local Police Station.
If you do not wish the Police to be involved many areas of the country now have Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) where you can talk to a trained worker in confidence. The SARC also has medical examination and counselling facilities. There are also other agencies that can help including Rape Crisis Centres at www.rapecrisis.org.uk, and other specialist voluntary organisations. Information on SARC locations, Rape Crisis centres and how to contact Victim Support can be found Home Office Website http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk under sexual offences.
What will the Police do if I report to them?
Many policing areas have introduced specially trained officers to deal with reports of sexual offences. They will send an officer to meet you. Tell them if you would prefer to speak to a male or female officer.
What will they need to know?
The officer will take your personal details and will record the full details of the incident. This will include what happened, where and when it happened, whether you are injured, whether you have kept the clothing that you were wearing at the time, whether you know your attacker, or if there are any witnesses including anyone else you have told about it.
Will I have to give a statement?
You may be required to give a written witness statement or a video recorded interview. These options will be discussed with you.
Who will investigate?
Generally it will be the country in which the attack occurred. However the British Police may take details from you and send them to an investigating officer in the country in which the attack occurred. If your attacker is from the UK and has returned to the UK the British Police may conduct some of the investigation on their behalf.
Will I have to be medically examined?
A forensic medical examination is an opportunity for you discuss your welfare together with a possibility of obtaining evidence. A forensic examination will not take place without your consent. All Police forces have medical examination facilities. Wherever possible you will have the choice of a male or female doctor.
You may also be advised to visit your doctor or a GUM clinic to have a pregnancy test or tests for sexually transmitted infections.
Will I have to return to the country where it happened?
You may have to if there are identification procedures or a court case. The Police/Foreign Office will discuss the financial implications for travelling to the country where the assault took place.
What will I do if the local Police don’t know what to do?
You should receive the appropriate response to your report however, every force has a senior officer who has responsibility for rape and serious sexual assault should you need further advice. Your local Police force can assist you to find out about your case if it has already been investigated in another country. Alternatively, your local Rape Crisis Centre or other victim support service may be able to assist.
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