We aim to provide survivors of sexual violence, such as rape or attempted rape, with prompt and safe services. We aim to ensure their well-being and rights while reducing the physical and psychological consequences of what happened.
The services at the Emergency Clinic are free of charge and available 24/7
Survivors of sexual violence receive counseling, support, medical examination, and treatment. Those who seek our services are met with consideration, warmth, trust, and confidentiality. The services are available regardless of whether the survivor decides to file a police report.
Services and treatment for sexual violence
Samples are taken to diagnose or rule out infections and pregnancy.
Injuries are assessed and treated according to their severity.
A forensic examination is conducted, and forensic evidence is collected and preserved, if applicable.
A detailed report of the survivor's account is written, and their mental state and injuries are assessed and recorded upon arrival.
Swabs are taken for DNA analysis, and forensic evidence are collected, such as clothing and other items.
Photographs of injuries are taken and preserved as part of the forensic evidence.
Clothing and other forensic evidence are collected and stored.
Free trauma care and psychological support are available for all who seek services at the emergency clinic.
Counseling and assistance with processing emotional trauma. This service is free of charge.
Assessment of mental well-being and an offer of continued treatment as needed.
Assistance with psychosocial issues, strengthening coping strategies and support networks.
Children under 18 years of age receive psychological services through Child Protective Services.
Everyone has the right to legal counselling, regardless of whether they choose to press charges.
A lawyer:
provides advice on the legal system, handling of case documents, and preparation of claims for damages
is present during police interviews if the survivor decides to press charges
follows the case through the legal system
This service is free of charge.
Follow-up Appointments
Follow-up appointments are available as needed with a nurse.
We monitor for physical injuries, treatment, and potential pregnancy.
You may need to return for further tests and imaging of your injuries.
These follow-up visits are documented in a post-visit report about the survivor.
Blood Tests
Survivors must get a blood test for possible infectious diseases (Hepatitis B & C, and HIV), which needs to be repeated after three and six months for reliable results.
These blood tests are done free of charge at the Department of Dermatology and Venereology or at a primary healthcare center, and you don't need to specify the reason for the request.
If the Survivor is Under 18 Years Old
By legal obligation, the Emergency Clinic must report cases involving individuals under 18 years old to child protective authorities.
Emergency Clinic reports are only given to the police with the written consent of the survivor, the legal guardian of a child under 18, or Child Protective Services.
How to Increase the Likelihood of Finding Forensic Evidence
Arrive as soon as possible after the suspected sexual assault.
Wear the clothes related to the incident or bring them with you to the emergency clinic.
Do not shower or wash before the examination and sample collection.
Do not wash or throw away clothes or menstrual products related to the incident.
Do not dispose of condoms or any other items related to the incident.
Do not clean or dispose of forensic evidence at the crime scene, such as bedding, furniture, household items, or tools.
Forensic evidence is stored for one year. Reports from the Emergency Clinic are never handed over to the police without the survivor's written consent. The survivor or the parents of a young survivor, decide whether or not to press charges.
