If you think you have, or someone else has, been subject to any act of sexual misconduct, there are lots of ways in which you, or they, can get help:
●For students: Student Well-Being Support services, Student Counselling Services, or the Student Union. You may also report it directly on the University’s Report and Support system. You can choose to do this anonymously or you can request support from an advisor. If you choose to talk to an advisor they will be able to talk through the options and support available to you, in confidence. It you feel that your report has not been handled appropriately, you have the right to make a formal complaint to the University, following the University’s Complaints Handling Procedures.
●For staff: Staff Recourses. You may also report it directly on the University’s Report and Support system. You can choose to do this anonymously or you can request support from an advisor. If you choose to talk to an advisor they will be able to talk through the options and support available to you, in confidence. It you feel that your report has not been handled appropriately, you have the right to make a formal complaint to the University, following the University’s Complaints Handling Procedures. Experiencing sexual assault may make you feel incredibly violated and vulnerable, especially if you are alone. It may make you reluctant to report it, through fear of what might happen if you do. However, it’s important to know that you are not alone, and there are a number of services available who will believe you and provide you with the support you need. What you do next is your choice, and they are able to help you make that choice.
It's important to seek support after experiencing something like sexual misconduct. The amount of support you receive now can help you heal and come to terms with what has happened to you. The possibilities of injury, pregnancy or STIs can be high, so you should at least seek medical help if you have been sexually assaulted.
If you are in immediate danger or are seriously injured, you should contact the emergency services on 999 (or 112 from a mobile phone).
If the incident has just happened, try and get to a safe space or somewhere you feel comfortable. If this is not possible, you can suggest that they contact The University SafeGuarding Services by calling 0131 451 3500, or by using the SafeZone App.
If you have any physical injuries after a sexual misconduct, you should seek medical help. SafeGuarding officers are fully first aid trained and have undergone Mental Health first aid training. Alternatively, you can visit your local Accident & Emergency department. The nearest A&E unit for Edinburgh is located at The Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh and the nearest Minor Injuries unit is located at Western General Hospital in Craigleith. Those in the Scottish Borders Campus can access A&E at Borders General Hospital, whilst those in Orkney should attend Balfour Hospital Emergency department.
There is no right or wrong way of coping with sexual misconduct and everyone has their own way of dealing with it. There is no wrong reaction – many people remain very calm or even numb after sexual misconduct.
It can be helpful to talk to someone about what has happened to you. Seek out someone that you trust, like a friend or family member. They can offer a listening ear and may be able to point you in the direction of more specialised support. If you don’t feel comfortable talking about what has happened, it can be good to be with someone you trust so you’re not alone.
Scottish Campuses Specific:
Sexual Assault Response Coordination Service (SARCS)There are a number of Sexual Referral Centres located within Scotland. These services are run by the National Health Service (NHS) and are available for anyone who has been affected by sexual violence, regardless of when it happened.
SARCS offer a range of services, including crisis care, medical and forensic examinations, as well as emergency contraception and testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). They can also arrange access to an independent sexual assault advisor (ISVA) and referrals to mental health support and sexual violence support services.
If you are thinking about reporting a sexual assault to the police, SARCS can arrange for you to speak to a specially trained police officer who can explain the next steps. You can also be provided support through the criminal justice process. You do not have to report to the police in order to access the SARCS service.
If you believe you have been sexually assaulted within the past 7 days, SARCS can arrange for you to have a medical and/or forensic examination. They will ask you some questions about the assault or any recent sexual activity, before collecting swabs if you choose. They can also document any injuries that can be used as evidence.
They will explain what they’ve found and discuss your options with you. They will also offer you any treatment, such as emergency contraception or protection from certain STIs.
If you would like to arrange a medical or forensic examination, you can call the NHS Scotland sexual assault self-referral phone service 0800 148 88 88. They can also help to arrange care for you in the days following a sexual assault. The self-referral line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
If you were sexually assaulted more than 7 days ago, a forensic examination is no longer possible. However, you should still seek support and look to report the assault as soon as possible.