Transforming the response for victims of sexual assault

The current health and justice response for victims of rape and sexual assault in Scotland is to be transformed.

The commitment was made by Justice Secretary Michael Matheson as part of an update to Parliament on the newly established Taskforce for the Improvement of Services for Victims of Rape and Sexual Assault – led by Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr Catherine Calderwood.

Mr Matheson said: “The need to treat victims of crime sensitively is never more acute than with those who are victims of a sexual offence.

“Many victims will be on a long journey of recovery which continues well beyond the conclusion of a court case. It is therefore crucial that the healthcare response is equipped to deliver the services they need. Often this begins with the forensic medical examination.

“Ministers have empowered the taskforce, through the CMO’s leadership, to be bold in looking at different models of service and to ensure delivery relevant to each location.”