New Dundee facility will act as safe space for people who've been raped or sexually assaulted

A new dedicated facility will help support people in Tayside who've been raped or sexually assaulted.

The multi-agency service means adults who’ve experienced these crimes no longer have to go to a police station.

Instead they can access healthcare and have forensic medical examinations in an NHS facility. Furthermore, it means their police interview can be conducted in more comfortable surroundings.

Tayside Healthcare and Forensic Medical Service’s new premises in Dundee has been developed by NHS Tayside as well as Angus Health and Social Care Partnership.

It’s in partnership with local rape crisis charities and Police Scotland – the aim is to make the facility as comfortable as possible for those who have experienced rape or sexual assault.

The new premises will have a dedicated nurse to coordinate and support a survivor’s onward care and recovery.

One survivor who previously attended a Dundee Police Station recently visited the new suite.

They said: “The new facility is bright, spacious and less intimidating. I feel that it is a massive improvement and although it cannot make any incident less traumatic, it is a safe place and will make the whole process that little bit easier.

“The new facility is separate to the police station which means that if an incident occurs you’re able to have the medical/forensic aspect done and then you’re completely in control.

“There is no pressure, they will support you in your choices and should you decide you want to report the crime you have the forensics there when you’re ready.”

Detective Inspector Keith Duncan from Public Protection at Police Scotland said: “We welcome the opening of the new medical forensic facility within Tayside.

“We hope that the discreet and safe environment that has been created away from Police premises, offers reassurance and confidence to those who have suffered a traumatic experience.

“We will continue to work together with our partners to provide the best possible service to our communities within Tayside.”

Jen Stewart, Centre Manager at RASAC Perth & Kinross added: “We are extremely pleased that this new premises is now open.

“Having supported many survivors over the years who have been through the reporting process, we know that being able do so out with a Police station is a far better option for survivors in the aftermath of an assault.”

“We recognise how difficult a time this is for people and are pleased that Tayside is in a position to make a very difficult situation as survivor-centred as possible.

“We have valued the opportunity to be part of this partnership and welcome all developments over the last few months, including the extension to the SARN service."