The number of individuals seeking specialist NHS support following rape or sexual assault has surged by nearly 18% over the past two years, according to recent NHS data.
This significant rise underscores the growing awareness and accessibility of vital services for survivors across England.
NHS Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs), which offer free, specialist support to anyone who has been raped, sexually assaulted, or abused, reported over 26,000 referrals in 2024 (26,374 from January to December), compared to 22,407 referrals in 2022. This increase follows national campaigns aimed at raising awareness about the available medical, practical, and emotional support, as well as the roll-out of SARCs among GPs.
SARCs provide a range of essential services, including crisis care, medical and forensic examinations, emergency contraception, and testing for sexually transmitted infections. They also facilitate access to independent sexual assault advisors and referrals to mental health support and voluntary sector sexual violence support services.
NHS Director for Health and Justice, Kate Davies CBE, said:
“Despite ongoing improvements to services, we know that there are still people who are not coming forward to get help following sexual assault and abuse. Please know that these services are available across England if you need them, and you will be cared for by a team who will help you get the care that is right for you.
“The involvement of survivors has absolutely been central to the development of these services, with a key focus on providing a safe space where you will be listened to and believed”.
NHS data reveals that 61% of all service users last year were under the age of 25, with approximately 7,000 referrals (27%) involving children under the age of 15. Despite the increase in support access, self-referrals remain low, with 78% of referrals coming via the police. This suggests that many survivors may not be aware that they can seek NHS support without involving the police.
The NHS is urging GPs to help ensure that patients are aware they can contact a SARC 24/7 for help and receive support anonymously if they wish. SARCs offer specialist medical care, forensic medical examinations, and onward referrals to psychological support for survivors of sexual assault and abuse, including related physical harm such as strangulation.
While the majority of referrals are for women and girls, SARCs provide confidential, specialist support to everyone, regardless of age, gender identity, or sexuality. These services ensure that all survivors can receive the care they need in a safe environment.
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