Forensic medical services - evidence collected: consultation - easy read

Part 1 Introduction

What is a Consultation?

The law says that the Scottish Government has to ask people their views before important changes are made.

When the Scottish Government asks people for their views it is called a Consultation.

The Scottish Government would like to hear your views about evidence collected by forensic medical services.  You have until 30 April 2021 to give your views.

What are forensic medical services?

This is a special type of medical examination for people who have experienced rape or sexual assault.

It is done by a specially trained doctor, who will try to help the person.

You can find information about what happens during and following a forensic medical examination at: Link to Easy Read summary leaflet.

The doctor may also be able to collect evidence that could help the police find the person who carried out the assault.

What is rape?

Someone having sex with you when you do not want to have sex is rape.

Someone having sex with you when they are aware that you are not able to tell them you do not want to have sex is rape.

Someone trying to have sex with you when you do not want to is attempted rape.

Someone trying to have sex with you when they are aware you are not able to tell them you do not want to have sex is attempted rape.

What is sexual assault?

Someone touching your body in a sexual way when you do not want them to.

Committing rape and sexual assault is against the law.

If it has happened to you, you have done nothing wrong and it is not your fault.

If it has happened to you, you should tell someone that you trust.

What is evidence?

Evidence can be body fluids or hair that belongs to the person who carried out the assault.

If the person who has experienced rape or sexual assault does not want to tell the police straight away, the health board will keep the evidence safe.

If the person decides not to tell the police, the evidence will be destroyed after a period of time.