New standards to ensure proper forensic medical services available to victims of sexual crime

New nationwide standards are being introduced to ensure consistent delivery of forensic medical examinations for victims of sexual violence.

Healthcare Improvement Scotland has been commissioned to produce the standards, which will ensure best practice is applied when examining victims following a rape or sexual assault – including the conditions and way examinations are handled.

The new standards will build on the good work of the National Coordinating Network for Forensic Medical Services and put beyond doubt what is expected in the delivery of care for victims. It will also “ensure NHS boards are clear in their role, helping ensure greater consistency throughout the country”.

Justice Secretary Michael Matheson said: “It is important that victims of sexual violence feel confident coming forward, knowing they are going to be supported every step of the way, including forensic examination.

“While the way evidence is gathered and recorded is a top priority for the legal process, it must be balanced with the needs of victims, who may be vulnerable and traumatised. Therefore I am pleased Healthcare Improvement Scotland are developing new national standards – an important step in ensuring a consistent and sympathetic service.

“Understandably, many sexual assault victims want to be examined by a female doctor. We are working hard to understand the barriers for woman getting involved in this area of medicine, as we seek to achieve a greater gender balance.”

Dr Louise Scott, who carries out forensic examinations on Stornoway, said: “When an individual has been brave enough to come forward after sexual assault, healthcare professionals have a vital role as part of that multi-agency response in meeting both the therapeutic needs of the victim and the high standard of evidential requirements.

“Many doctors and healthcare professionals may not realise they already have many of the professional skills required to provide a competent and caring response for victims of sexual assault and that, with the additional training and support available, they could be contributing to a high quality, co-ordinated, sensitive and victim-centred forensic medical response within their community.

“We need more female healthcare professionals prepared to take on this rewarding work, especially those from a GP, sexual health or gynaecology background, and help improve the experience and outcomes for victims.”

Sara Twaddle, director of evidence for Healthcare Improvement Scotland, said: “It is vital that victims of rape or sexual assault receive the best care and support possible, that they have confidence in the service and that forensic examinations are carried out to the same high standard across the country.

“The setting of clear standards is vital in helping drive improvements in the care people receive – not only to help services know the key areas where a high standard of care needs delivered, but also where to improve and focus their attention. We look forward to being involved in this important work and building on the positive work of the National Coordinating Network for Forensic Medical Service.”

Professor Stewart Irvine, medical director of NHS Education for Scotland, added: “We believe that these standards, in conjunction with our work identifying potential barriers to female doctors and supporting a greater gender balance in doctors carrying out examinations, will help provide better outcomes for survivors of sexual assault.”