I do not want to report to the police

• Call The Bridge on 0117 342 6999
• A Crisis Worker will listen to what has happened to you and explain how we can help
• We can arrange for a Doctor or Nurse to examine you, to check you are ok and look for forensic evidence*, if this is what you choose to go ahead with
• We will store forensic adult samples for 26 months and children’s (13-18 year olds who self-refer) samples until you are 25 years old.  Annually you can call/email us to extend the storage by 12 months at a time. If you decide to report to the police, the samples can be used as evidence in their investigation
• You can have an examination even if you have already washed, although there may be more DNA evidence on your body, if you feel able to wait until after an examination
• We will make sure that your sexual health is looked after, including providing you with medication, if necessary
• We can give you emergency contraception if needed
• We will offer you practical and emotional support, including counselling, and will arrange this support for you

*Forensic timescales vary (this means that for different types of assault, there are different lengths of time that we can look for DNA evidence, ring The Bridge on 0117 342 6999 to discuss how we can help you and your situation).

Here is a short film about Self-Referral Forensic Medical Examinations

I want to report to the police

• Call the police on 101 or 999
• A Specially Trained Officer will come to speak with you
• The Officer may call The Bridge to arrange for a Doctor or Nurse to examine you, to check you are ok and to look for forensic evidence*
• You can have an examination even if you have already washed, although there may be more DNA evidence on your body if you feel able to wait until after an examination
• We will make sure that your sexual health is looked after, including providing you with medication, if necessary
• We can give you emergency contraception if needed
• After you leave The Bridge, an Independent Sexual Violence Adviser can support you with the police investigation
• We will offer you practical and emotional support, including counselling, and will arrange this support for you

*Forensic timescales vary (this means that for different types of assault, there are different lengths of time that we can look for DNA evidence, ring The Bridge on 0117 342 6999 to discuss how we can help you and your situation).