Temporary change to SARC appointment location
Appointments for the Swindon & Wiltshire Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) are currently taking place at alternative locations while the Swindon site is upgraded.
This is a temporary change of location only — all services remain fully available.
The improvements are part of a national programme to meet Forensic Service Requirement (FSR) standards, ensuring consistent, high-quality care and improved environments for victims across all SARCs.
The Swindon site is undergoing building and equipment upgrades and will reopen once the work is complete.
What you need to know
- All SARC services continue as normal
- The referral number and 24/7 advice line remain unchanged
- Care and support will continue to be provided by the Swindon & Wiltshire team wherever possible
The default location for appointments during this period is Gloucester SARC. You will have been contacted by the SARC directly if you have an appointment scheduled whilst the improvement works are ongoing.
Your choice of location
If travelling to Gloucester is difficult or not your preference, we can arrange for you to attend another SARC location. Please contact the SARC directly.
SARCs regularly work together to provide care across regions, meaning:
- You are not limited to one location
- Your needs and preferences come first
- You can access a centre that feels safest and most convenient
Travel and transport
The SARC will arrange and fund your travel to any appointment at no cost to you to make attending as easy as possible.
Funding and investment
The service is funded by the Police and Crime Commissioner and NHS England, and delivered by specialist provider First Light.
Significant investment is being made to improve the facilities to meet the FSR standards, including:
- Upgraded forensic equipment and consumables
- Enhanced cleanliness and monitoring systems
- A new DNA recording database
- Improvements to the building and care environments
- The total cost of these improvements is expected to be around £500,000, ensuring the service meets national standards and continues to provide high-quality care.
FAQs
The Swindon site is temporarily closed for improvements to meet national forensic standards.
Most appointments are taking place at Gloucester SARC, but alternative locations can be arranged if needed. Please contact the SARC directly.
Yes. If Gloucester isn’t suitable, we will arrange an appointment at another SARC. Please contact the SARC directly.
Yes. All services remain fully available, with no reduction in support or care.
Where possible, the Swindon & Wiltshire team has relocated together, so you will be supported by staff you already know.
No. All travel is arranged and paid for by the service.
No. All services and travel are free of charge.
The improvements are expected to take at least six months. Updates will be shared as soon as they are available.
No. You can access the service without involving the police.
About Swindon & Wiltshire SARC
Swindon & Wiltshire SARC provides a safe, confidential and supportive service for anyone who has experienced rape or sexual assault.
The service:
- Supports victims emotionally and practically
- Helps people understand their options
- Can collect and preserve forensic evidence (if chosen)
- Ensures individuals feel cared for throughout
- The service is open to adults of all genders and backgrounds and is completely confidential and independent.
How to access support
You can access the service directly
- By completing an online referral form
- By calling the referral number
- Referrals can also be made by the police