INNOVATION
24 May, 2021
A hospital-based independent sexual violence adviser service is supporting survivors of sexual abuse presenting in healthcare settings. This initiative won the HRH Integrated Approaches to Care category in the 2020 Nursing Times Awards
Abstract
Survivors of rape and sexual assault need specialist support and health services may be where they first present. Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust worked with police and crime services to develop a new hospital-based role of health independent sexual violence adviser. The role included training healthcare staff to recognise the signs of sexual abuse and respond appropriately, making links with partners and creating referral routes. The service acts as a resource for colleagues by offering specialist knowledge, advice and skills, and access to timely patient-focused and holistic support for survivors, reducing repeat attendances in the emergency department.