FAQ Hope House SARC

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What is the Risk of contracting Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)?

You may be worried that you have an infection from the assault. Rates of STIs vary depending on how wide-spread they are in the area and also on the type of assault. STIs can be passed on through oral sex and transferred by sex-toys or objects using to penetrate the vagina or rectum. Treating any STI is important to protecting your ongoing health and in preventing further complications from untreated infection. Testing can be carried out to identify any infections and provide the appropriate treatment for you.

What if I am pregnant?

There may be a risk of pregnancy following the assault, even if full vaginal penetration did not take place. Emergency contraception can be provided in Hope House SARC to prevent unwanted pregnancy in the very early stages following the sexual assault (up to 72 hours). Pregnancy testing can be carried out on the day your next period is due and you will be offered advice and support.

Do I have to pay?

All of the services we offer are free of charge. There is no charge as all of the services we offer are fully funded through the Home Office,  the Gloucestershire Constabulary or the Gloucestershire Primary Care Trust.

Do I have to report to the police?

No, you don't have to. You may decide not to involve the police for any number of reasons. You can notify the police at any time and explain what has happened to you. The Hope House SARC staff will discuss available options with you and support you through your decision-making process.

However, if you are undecided as to whether to involve the police or not at this stage, you may still wish to undergo an examination which will allow the collection and storage of forensic evidence. 

This process does not involve the police and the reporting of the incident is anonymous. 

Only the Hope House SARC staff will know your identity. You may also wish to give an account of what has happened to you. You will still be able to be tested for sexually-transmitted infections.

What will happen if I choose to report to the police?

The Hope House SARC staff and dedicated police officers and staff will support you through the investigation process which may involve a forensic examination (unless you have previously been examined in regards to this incident). A full account will also need to be obtained from you about what has happened.

You will be allocated a specially trained police officer who will be your contact throughout the investigation process and for any future court hearings.

Will I have to go to court?

The decision to report sexual violence is often very difficult and you may be worried about doing so. It is your right to choose whether to bring a case against the offender or not. The Crown Prosecution Service will decide if there is sufficient evidence or that it is in the public interest to go to court. The Witness Care Unit, along with specially-trained staff, will help support you through the court process and hearings.
For information specifically for adult survivors of sexual violence go to: www.rightsofwomen.org.uk

I am worried about giving a name. What are my options?

You can report as much as you wish about the assault to the Hope House SARC staff.

You do not have to give your name or the name of the offender if you do not wish to do so. The Hope House SARC staff will be able to advise you how your information could be used and check with you what information you wish to share.

The information (but not your identity unless you wish to do so) that you give can be used for criminal intelligence purposes and the prevention and detection of crime. This information will be shared with the police.

Information given by yourself to the police as part of the reporting procedure is shared with the Crown Prosecution Service.