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Sexual Assault Response Coordination Services (SARCS) Campaign Launch
The SARCS campaign launched last week to increase awareness of this important service. Campaign materials are available for use across partner channels.
SARCS is a dedicated NHS Scotland service offering healthcare and support to people in the days after a rape or sexual assault, even if they aren't ready or are unsure about reporting to the police.
Anyone aged 16 or over can self-refer to SARCS by calling the dedicated 24/7 national telephone service within 7 days of a rape or sexual assault.
Across Scotland, SARCS teams provide immediate healthcare and wellbeing support, including forensic medical examinations when appropriate. Forensic evidence can be kept for up to 26 months should someone decide to report to police later. More information is available at www.nhsinform.scot/SARCS
The campaign will run across targeted TV, tactical out-of-home including restrooms, pubs and pharmacies, digital channels, podcasts, social media, partnerships and PR activity. The campaign launched on 30 October 2026 and will run until 31 March 2027.
View the SARCS 30 sec film via Youtube here
Tackling violence against women and girls and ensuring that victims-survivors receive the healthcare and support they need is paramount. Latest figures show awareness of SARCS in Scotland currently sits at 25% (Scottish Government Polling Data, 2026), so we need your help to grow this and make sure more people know this vital service exists.
Resources
The SARCS Stakeholder Toolkit outlines all assets available, which include posters, social media films and imagery with suggested supporting copy and the TV advert.
SARCS Information leaflets are also available in accessible and translated formats.
You can access all resources via the SG Communications Resource Centre - SARCS
How You Can Help
- Re-share posts from the Healthier Scotland Facebook channel and follow the Scottish Government Facebook and Instagram accounts.
- Share social films and/or static social assets with accompanying copy via your social channels.
- Print / display / circulate posters across your networks (these work best in private, safe spaces like changing rooms and toilets)
- Keep an eye out for other Scottish Government campaigns tackling violence against women and girls.
If you have any questions please get in touch. Your support is invaluable in spreading awareness of this important service.
Thank you for your help and continued support.