Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) in Dorset to NHS England South West

NHS England as lead commissioner and the Dorset Office of the Police & Crime Commissioner (OPCC) and Dorset Police Force as co-commissioners, are recommissioning Dorset Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) services. Dorset SARC services aim to increase equity of access and ensure a consistent and high standard of quality care to victims of sexual assault. The service will be delivered in line with current national standards, regulations and governance and be designed to meet the needs of the local population. The services within scope include core SARC provision, SARC management, the provision of medical and forensic examinations (both acute and non-recent), crisis support and onward referral services for people who have experienced sexual assault. It should be noted that non-recent cases for children aged 12 years and under are out of scope of the SARC contract and will not be undertaken at the (accredited) SARC site. The Provider will ensure that services are delivered in an age-appropriate way for children and adults; all staff must meet the skills and competences commensurate with their role. Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (ISVA) services and therapeutic provision including counselling and talking therapies will be out of scope. However, the new SARC provider will work closely with these services and ensure service users are referred to onward provision as appropriate. The Commissioner intends to contract for the Services using the National NHS Standard Contract. The contract term will be for a duration of 7 years and will commence from 6th January 2025. The total contract value is £6,264,561 over the seven years. This is an existing service being awarded to a new provider. This procurement was carried out by NHS South, Central and West Commissioning Support Unit (SCW) on behalf of the Commissioners.