Sexual Abuse Referral Centre (SARC)
The purpose of the medical examination is not only to look for signs (evidence) but also to ensure the health and well-being of the child – the therapeutic value of which cannot be overstated’
Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health.
Many children who are known or suspected to have been victims of CSA and are known to the police and/or social care are not brought for a medical examination (1 in 4 have a medical examination).
Reasons to refer:
- Evidence
- DNA (forensics)
- Anatomical damage (fresh or healed)
- Other categories of harm
- Health
- STI screening & prevention
- Emergency contraception
- Emotional welfare
- Reassurance
- Counselling and support
The CSA Centre have conducted research on the role and purpose of the medical examination and the lived experience of, and impacts on, children and young people of having an examination. They have also produced a video to help professionals and practitioners involved in advising, referring and supporting children and families make decisions and explain processes to children and families.
The West Midlands Sexual Abuse Referral Centre (SARC) provided a webinar on their services as well as easy read guides for children, young people, parents and carers, and professionals.
Blue Sky Centre’s website
Telephone: 0800 970 0370
E-mail: info@blueskycentre.org.uk
There is also a West Midlands Regional Children and Young People Sexual Assault Service. The service supports children from birth to 17 years old and 18-25 year olds who present with complex needs.
Their helpline 0808 196 2340 is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Professionals can also email wmppaeds.sarc@nhs.net or visit their website
Leaflets for their service are available for professionals, parents and carers and young people
Coventry Safeguarding Children Partnership (CSCP)
This team cannot take calls related to individual children or families. To discuss an individual or a case please call Coventry Children’s Social Care at the Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) on 024 7678 8555.