The Rowan provides a range of services for people who have been raped or sexually assaulted.
You can access our services either via Police or you can contact us directly. You can also be referred to our services through another agency as long they have your consent to do so.
Our services are available for men, women and children and young people.
Support and services available
If you have been recently sexually assaulted (with or without reporting to the police) we offer:
- Forensic medical examination by a specially trained doctor. This is to obtain forensic evidence and is best carried out as soon as possible after an assault has occurred.
- Forensic evidence can be stored for up to 2 years to allow time to make a decision about whether or not you wish to report to the Police.
- Emergency contraception
- PEPSE, if appropriate (this is a course of treatment to help prevent the onset of HIV in those who are at risk, this must be administered within 72 hours of the assault)
- Screening and treatment for sexually transmitted infections
- Emotional support
- Support in making a report to the Police
- Referral on to counselling and/or other appropriate support services such as a local GUM clinic, Victim Support NI.
- Follow-up support
- A 24 hour advice and information line 0800 389 4424
If you were sexually assaulted weeks, months or even years ago (with or without reporting to the police) we offer:
- Referral onto counselling and/or other appropriate support services
- Advice and screening for sexually transmitted infections
- Informal discussion with a specially trained police officer, if requested
Translation services are available if English is not your first language.
If you report your assault to the Police, you should automatically be offered The Rowan’s services as part of their response to sexual violence and abuse.
You can use our services without making a report to the Police or we can support you if and when you do want to speak to the Police.