FFLM Warns Student Unions Against Self-Swab ‘Rape Kits’
As universities prepare for the start of the new academic year, the FFLM has written to Student Union Presidents and Officers to express concerns regarding the promotion and distribution of self‑swab ‘rape kits’ by external companies.
These kits pose significant risks, including potential contamination of evidence and hindering victims from accessing essential medical, psychosocial and safeguarding care.
Our President, Dr Alex Gorton, states:
“Whilst no-one is pretending that the current system is working as well as it should to reduce sexual violence, these kits are not the answer. The overwhelming opposition from those representing survivors, clinicians, police and legal experts should have prompted a rethink of their rollout. Sadly, that does not appear to be happening. It is vital that students who have experienced sexual assault are guided towards the specialist support offered by Sexual Assault Referral Centres, where they can receive the right care with holistic wraparound support.”
To help protect students, we urge Student Unions to:
- Reinforce to students that reputable organisations do not endorse these kits
- Direct any student who has experienced sexual assault to their local Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) for appropriate care and forensic examination
- Remain vigilant against communications that promote self‑swab kits as substitutes for professional care or imply they deter sexual violence
For more details, read our full letter here: Distribution of Self-Swab Test Kits to University Students, 10 September 2026
Our Joint Position Statement on the matter can be found here: Joint Position Statement on forensic self-swab services after sexual assault or rape with FAQ