Frequently asked questions
What will happen during my appointment?
What about medical care for children?
Who is The Bridge for?
Anyone in Avon and Somerset who has been raped or sexually assaulted can come to The Bridge - women, men and children can all attend.
Do I have to be referred?
You don't have to be referred. It's up to you if you want to see us. All you need to do is call or email The Bridge for an appointment.
What will happen during my appointment?
The following are four possible options for survivors of sexual violence considering reporting to Police:
- Client has firm commitment to make a formal complaint with Police
- Client is unsure about reporting
- Anonymous Intelligence Disclosure
- Clients who do not wish to report
All forensic medicals out of hours must be arranged directly with the Police and require Police involvement in order to proceed. This means that the client must speak with Police in order for them to take an 'initial account' prior to the forensic medical commencing.
The client can contact the Control Room on 0845 456 7000 or in case of an emergency 999. Alternatively, the Crisis Worker can contact the Control Room and the Police will make arrangements for an appropriate Police Officer to contact the client. They may well also contact you to get further information in the first instance.
For clients who are unsure about reporting to Police but wish to keep this option open can have evidence stored at The Bridge should they change their mind at a later date. Their forensic medical can be done during business hours only. Leave a message on the Centre Manager's voicemail with all relevant details so as arrangements can be made for a forensic medical – with no formal Police involvement. The daytime staff at the Bridge can also gather evidence by using an Early Evidence Kit at the Centre.
Clients who do not wish to report to Police have the option to have samples taken at the forensic medical to be given anonymously to Police.
The need for a sexual health screening appointment is assessed. If appropriate the client is referred to a relevant sexual health clinic for sexual health screening.
Will I get counselling?
The Bridge Counselling Service is open to men and women aged 14 and over living in the Avon and Somerset area who have either been sexually assaulted within the last 12 months from the date of referral.
In order to be eligible for counselling at The Bridge it is important clients are not already attending sessions with a counsellor; do not have significant current or recent drug or alcohol addiction and are not either sectioned under the Mental Health Act or have severe and significant and enduring mental health difficulties.
What about medical care for children?
All our examiners are trained to give medical help to anyone who has been sexually assaulted. But, if they think any young girl or boy might need special attention, they will get help from a paediatrician or a doctor who specialises in looking after children. We will also be able to refer young people for appropriate follow-up care.
Will I be safe at The Bridge?
Your safety is very important to us and The Bridge is a secure centre; no-one is allowed in without us knowing who they are. We can give further advice if you have safety concerns following a sexual assault. If you are concerned for your safety at any time, please contact police. In an emergency dial 999.
