Northamptonshire’s Serenity SARC becomes the first Adult and Paediatric SARC in the world to achieve UKAS accreditation
Serenity Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) has reached a major milestone, becoming the first Sexual Assault Referral Centre in the world to be awarded UKAS accreditation for both adult and children's services.
This internationally recognised accreditation confirms that Serenity provides care to the highest possible standards, offering safe, compassionate and specialist support to people who have experienced sexual assault or abuse.
What this means for patients and service-users
UKAS accreditation is an independent mark of quality. For the people who use Serenity SARC, it means they can feel reassured that:
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They will be treated with dignity, respect and compassion
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Care is trauma informed and centred around their individual needs
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Any forensic evidence is handled safely, carefully and to nationally agreed standards
It also builds confidence for partner services, including healthcare teams, the police and courts.
Fay Wickett, Service Manager for Serenity SARC, said:
"This is a hugely important moment for our service. Becoming the first Adult and Paediatric Sexual Assault Referral Centre to achieve UKAS accreditation is something we are incredibly proud of. It reflects the dedication of our team and our commitment to providing the best possible care for people at some of the most difficult moments in their lives"
How does Serenity support adults, children and young people who've experienced sexual abuse?
Serenity SARC supports adults, children and young people who have experienced sexual violence, whether or not they choose to involve the police.
Each year, the service:
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Carries out hundreds of forensic medical examinations
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Offers ongoing emotional and practical support through specialist Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (ISVA) and Child Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (CHISVA) services
This work is delivered by a small, highly skilled NHS team who support survivors across Northamptonshire.
Serenity has been working towards this accreditation for several years, meeting a wide range of quality, safety and care standards.
Jo Gibbs, Quality Manager, said:
"This accreditation provides independent assurance that Serenity meets nationally recognised standards for care and quality. Most importantly, it reinforces trust and confidence for patients and their families, showing that the service is safe, supportive and focused on their wellbeing"
Achieving UKAS accreditation is a significant step forward for Serenity SARC and for NHS sexual assault referral services more widely. It reflects a commitment to providing the highest-quality, compassionate care.
While this milestone is worth celebrating, the focus remains firmly on what matters most: continuing to offer support to those who need it following sexual abuse.
We're here when you're ready
Serenity is here to support you following sexual abuse.
You don't need to decide everything at once. Reaching out for information or support does not mean you are committing to any particular next step.
If you or someone you know needs support, you can contact Serenity at any time:
Serenity 24-hour helpline: 01604 601713
Office number: 0300 027 0040
You deserve care, compassion and choice and Serenity is here to help.