FFLM responds to ITV Exposure programme on organised drug-facilitated sexual assault
Last night’s ITV Exposure programme on organised drug-facilitated sexual assault (ODFSA) may have been difficult viewing for many, particularly victims and survivors who recognised aspects of their own experiences in what was shared. It also provides an important opportunity to raise awareness and understanding of ODFSA, and to highlight the devastating impact these crimes can have on those affected. We commend Laura’s bravery in coming forward and hope that this will help broaden the existing national conversation.
Our Sexual Offence Medicine Lead, Dr Helen Mills, states:
“ODFSA is a profound violation, often involving someone the victim knows and trusts. Discovering that abuse may have taken place when you have no memory of it can be deeply distressing.
Victims and survivors need to be listened to, taken seriously and offered specialist care. Sexual assault referral centres can provide care and support even if someone is unsure what happened or does not wish to report to police.
Responding to this abuse requires specialist clinical skills. Formal recognition of forensic and legal medicine as a medical specialty is essential to strengthening the training and expertise underpinning the care that victims and survivors need.”
Our President, Dr Alex Gorton, states:
“Sexual assault referral centres offer specialist care and forensic assessments for people who may have experienced sexual assault. There is no equivalent national network for victims of other forms of assault. This leaves gaps in access, particularly for victims of domestic abuse or people who may be unable to explain how their injuries occurred. Laura’s case highlights further the challenge in investigating these cases and the need for access to highly skilled forensic clinicians. GP’s, Emergency Departments and other areas of practice need to have access to forensic medical specialists for advice and support.
The FFLM believes consideration should be given to a national network of assault referral centres, modelled on sexual assault referral centres. These would give victims of assault, including vulnerable adults and those experiencing domestic abuse, access to high-quality care and rigorous clinical and forensic assessments.”
The FFLM remains committed to supporting improvements in the care, recognition and treatment of victims and survivors of sexual and other forms of assault, and to ensuring that specialist clinical and forensic expertise is available to those who need it.