The Bridge (SARC 24 hrs) Under 18 Pathway
www.thebridgecanhelp.org.uk
The Bridge exists to support anyone of any age who has been raped or sexually assaulted.
The Bridge (SARC)
We provide emotional, medical and practical care and support for any child or young person who has been raped or sexually assaulted at anytime
We provide forensic medical examinations for children and young people who have experienced recent rape or sexual assault (in the last 7 days). This happens with police involvement and for some young people without police involvement giving young people the freedom to have evidence collected without the pressure to make an immediate decision about reporting to the police.
Our telephone line is answered 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and is for:
- anyone who has been sexually assaulted at any time
- family and friends of anyone who has been assaulted
- professionals who have received a disclosure
The Crisis Worker who answers can provide information, advice and support.
For cases where the assault occurred more than 7 days previously, children can be signposted and supported by their local paediatric team and local sexual violence services in their respective areas. All children from Avon and Somerset will continue to be supported by The Bridge.
Who do you work with?
- Gender: All
- Age: Under 18
- Location: BANES, Bristol, North Somerset, Somerset, South Gloucestershire, Swindon, Wiltshire, Gloucestershire
- Case type: Recent rape or sexual assault (in the last 7 days) for forensic medical examination and immediate care. Non-recent (for advice and support)
- Other: We are a non-discriminatory organisation
- For children and young people, we are able to see or speak face to face to them and/or their families or carers, Monday to Friday, 9am – 6pm and on weekends 12pm – 4pm
- Telephone advice is available 24 hours a day
- For children aged 13 and under, this will need to be with the co-operation of the police force in their area
- For young people aged 14 to 17, we may not need to have police involvement although we may have to speak to the police
