Home / Crime and Justice / Plymouth Sexual Assault Centre Relocates to St Austell Amidst Protests
Plymouth Sexual Assault Centre Relocates to St Austell Amidst Protests
16 Oct
Summary
- Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) moves from Plymouth to St Austell.
- Concerns raised about increased distress and delayed care for victims.
- New facility to replace outdated centres and meet national standards.
A vital centre for forensic examinations of sexual assault victims has been moved from Plymouth to St Austell. Local councillors and MPs had campaigned against the relocation of the Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) for Devon and Cornwall. They voiced concerns that longer travel distances would cause distress, delay care, and discourage victims from reporting incidents.
National standards necessitated the move, as the existing facilities in Plymouth and Truro could not be upgraded. The new SARC for over-18s will be located in St Austell. While a new support hub in Plymouth offers face-to-face crisis and recovery services, forensic examinations will now occur elsewhere.
NHS England Southwest acknowledged that most ongoing support would remain in Plymouth. Transport for victims requiring forensic examinations will be provided, accompanied by trained officers. Under-16s will continue to be taken to Exeter, which is a paediatric centre of excellence. This decision aims to ensure all forensic evidence is handled in accredited facilities.
