Police

There are no police officers based at The Bridge. However, if you decide at any time to talk with the police, informally or formally, this can be arranged by our Independent Sexual Violence Advisor. This appointment will be made with a member of the dedicated specialist Sexual Assault Investigation Team in the area where you live.

Forensic medical examination

As well as gathering forensic evidence by taking relevant swabs and samples, the specialist doctor will also attend to any health concerns, for example emergency contraception needs. The doctor can refer you for follow-up sexual health screening and care at your local sexual health clinic.

If you attend a forensic medical examination at The Bridge but are unsure if you wish to report to police, the doctor will take forensic samples and store them at The Bridge in case you change your mind in the future. With your consent, these samples can be passed to police for forensic analysis with or without disclosing your identity.

Clients will be supported through a forensic examination by a specially trained crisis worker.