Clients’ experiences of the St Marys SARC: A qualitative study
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A qualitative study exploring clients’ experiences of the St Marys Sexual Assault Referral Centre
IRAS ID
186701
Contact name
Rabiya Majeed
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 5 months, 1 days
Research summary
Research Summary:
There has been limited research evaluating the effectiveness of the Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) model. Furthermore, outcome measures in existing research have been driven by stakeholders other than the patient. We propose to evaluate SARC patients’ own needs, to determine what they perceive as important and why. Capturing patient reported outcomes in this way will enable recommendations to be made, as to what systems need to be incorporated into practice to deliver timely patient centred care.Summary of Results:
The UK has one of the lowest conviction rates for sexual assaults in Europe, with only 7% resulting in conviction. In response to this a Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) model of integrated care was introduced in 2001. To date, there is limited research examining SARC services and support accessed. To address this gap, seven female sexual assault clients were interviewed. Findings suggest the SARC is a safe haven that provides independent support. However, accounts about the role of support workers varied. The study, while exploratory, highlights the need for further discussion and research on SARC care and practice.REC name
North West - Greater Manchester Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
15/NW/0748
Date of REC Opinion
15 Oct 2015
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion