A Multi-Agency Briefing on Sexual Assault Referral Pathways and the SARC

Understanding SARC and Referral Pathways
Presented by Martyne Roberts, Engagement Officer for West Midlands Children and Young Persons Service, Mountain Healthcare

This session will provide an overview of the Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) and the pathways available to support children and young people (CYP) affected by sexual abuse. Martyne Roberts will outline the types of cases SARC can support, explain the referral process, and clarify the role of strategy meetings in safeguarding responses.

Key distinctions between Child Protection (CP) and Child Sexual Abuse (CSA) medicals will be discussed, alongside forensic timeframes and considerations. The presentation will also share learning from recent incidents, offer insights into the examination process, and highlight onward referral options and follow-up care available to CYP and their families.

A summary of topics that will be covered are as follows:

• CYP that we can support.
• SARC referral pathways.
• Strategy Meetings.
• Difference between CP and CSA medicals.
• Forensic timeframes.
• Learning from incidents.
• About the examinations.
• Onward referrals and care.

We will also be hearing from the team at West Mercia Rape & Sexual Assault Centre (WMRSASC) about the ISVA (Independent Sexual Violence Advocacy Service) Team and referral pathway