Specialist nurses to support survivors of sexual assault to be introduced

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The move follows a successful trial of the use of nurse sexual offence examiners to provide trauma-informed care while gathering forensic evidence, as well as offer opinion evidence later in court.

Hailing the move, which is aimed at better allowing people to exercise their right to be examined by someone of their chosen sex, Public Health Minister Maree Todd said: “It is crucial for any survivor of rape or another sexual offence to be able to access the support they need, in the way they need it.

“The hours after a sexual assault are some of the most difficult a survivor will face.

“Expanding this specialist nursing role means more survivors will be cared for by compassionate, highly trained professionals.”

Rape Crisis Scotland chief executive Alev Taylor said: “This is an incredibly important step in removing some of the most persistent barriers for survivors.

“We hope that we can finally get to a place where survivors across the country have access to support which feels right for them.”