If you think you or someone you know has been raped or sexually assaulted, there is a variety of support options available.
Rape Crisis Scotland can offer support to those who have experienced a recent or attempted rape or sexual assault (in the past 7 days). Contact them by calling Rape Crisis Scotland’s helpline on 08088 010302 (free phone, 5 pm – midnight every day), or by phoning Edinburgh Rape Crisis support line mobile on 07966067301, or on 0131 556 9437 by leaving a message for call back. They can also be contacted by email at support@ercc.sco
SARCS is an NHS Scotland sexual assault self-referral phone service which can help you arrange care for yourself in the days following a rape or sexual assault. The service can arrange for you to have a forensic medical examination within 7 days of the assault, without making a report to the police, and also link you in with follow up support. They can be contacted 24/7 on 0800 148 8888.
SARCS is an NHS Scotland sexual assault self-referral phone service which can help you arrange care for yourself in the days following a rape or sexual assault. The service can arrange for you to have a forensic medical examination within 7 days of the assault, without making a report to the police, and also link you in with follow up support. They can be contacted 24/7 on 0800 148 8888.
University Support
- Equally Safe Team: Students can contact the team directly at equallysafeteam@ed.ac.uk for support navigating current or non-recent sexual violence, harassment or other forms of gender based violence
- Code of Student Conduct: Visit this link to find out more about how the University can respond to any complaints of abuse or harassment
- Student Counselling Service: Supports the mental health and well-being of all students at the University, through short term counselling and referral to other support
- The EUSA Advice Place employs a team of advisers to provide one-to-one advice to students. It’s a free and comprehensive welfare rights and education service. They can offer information, support, advice, signposting and referral to more specialist services
Other sources of support
- Galop is a charity that supports lesbian, gay, bi, trans, and queer people affected by sexual violence 0800 999 5428
- The National Stalking Helpline can give you information and advice on support and options available to you 0808 802 0300
- Edinburgh Women’s Aid provides a range of services for women experiencing domestic abuse including a dedicated court support project, and access to one-to-one support as required. 0131 315 8110 or to access any services email duty@edinwomensaid.co.uk
- Shakti Women’s Aid support black minority ethnic (BME) women who are experiencing or who have experienced domestic abuse 0131 475 2399
- Respect Men's Advice Line is an advice line for male victims of domestic abuse 0808 801 0327
- Scottish Women's Rights Centre provides legal advice and access to specially trained solicitors 08088 010 789
- Edinburgh Nightline is a helpline for students, run by students, operating 8 pm – 8 am every night of term 0131 557 4444
- Samaritans are available to talk about anything that’s troubling you, no matter how large or small the issue. Call: 116 123. Lines are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
- Breathing Space have experienced advisors who will listen and offer information and advice. Call their Helpline number: 0800 83 85 87 Opening hours: Weekdays: Monday-Thursday 6pm to 2am. Weekend: Friday 6pm-Monday 6am