First Light – Swindon & Wiltshire SARC
www.firstlight.org.uk
First Light help and support people who have experienced domestic abuse and sexual violence in Cornwall, Devon & Wiltshire.
First Light works in partnership with the NHS to deliver immediate support for women, men and children who have experienced rape or sexual assault. First Light delivers the service in Swindon and Wiltshire.
A Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) is a special facility where recent victims of rape or sexual assault can receive immediate help and support. This includes access to a forensic medical examination, which is carried out by an experienced and qualified doctor or nurse, and the opportunity to speak to the Police about what has happened to them if the client wishes to do so. SARC clients also receive help and advice from one of our Crisis Workers who can offer to support them and stay with them throughout the process.
- Gender: All
- Age: 16 and above. Under 16s are still able to access support through the Centre of Excellence in Bristol. First Light can provide guidance on how these referrals can be made.
- Location: Swindon & Wiltshire
- Case type: Recent (within 7 – 10 days)
“First Light is independent of any agency so you do not have to worry about the Police or any other organisation or person (including your loved ones) finding out about your abuse or assault. Neither do you have to have first reported to the Police to access our services. Our staff will treat anything you say to them in confidence. There are a number of circumstances when the law requires us to share information without your consent. Wherever possible, we will inform you when we do.”
Crisis Workers and Sexual Offence Examiners
