Highlighting the support available for survivors of sexual assault and abuse

Oldham residents who have experienced rape, sexual assault or abuse can now seek free, round-the-clock help without first speaking to police, as the NHS launches a fresh push to raise awareness of Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs).

Many survivors stay silent because they fear being pushed into a formal investigation, yet SARCs are designed to give care on the survivor's terms. Staff explain every option, from emergency contraception and STI tests to counselling, and will only involve officers if the person asks.

Greater Manchester's own centre, Saint Mary's SARC, already opens its doors to men, women and children no matter when or where the assault happened. A single call to 0161 276 6515 starts the process, and the service keeps records separate from police files unless a crime report is requested.

Nationally, centres operate 24 hours a day, but uptake remains low because word has not reached everyone who needs them. The new campaign urges people to search 'sexual assault referral centres' or visit the NHS site to locate their nearest unit, stressing that walking through the door never obliges anyone to give a statement.

For Oldham, the message is simple: help is local, confidential and free, and the first step can be as small as a phone call.