News/Blog

The Forensic Medical Services Act: What you need to know

In 2021, The Forensic Medical Services (Victims of Sexual Offences) (Scotland) Act passed into law. This legislation means health boards can now provide Forensic Medical Examinations (FME) after a self-referral, without victims/survivors needing to report to police first.

Know your rights: the criminal justice process

As a survivor of gender-based violence, engaging with the criminal justice process as a witness after a perpetrator is charged can be a daunting and stressful prospect. Please know that the SWRC are here to support you. We can help explain the process so that you know what to expect. We can also make you aware of your rights and provide information about a range of support services that may be available to provide emotional and practical support to you.

SWRC statement on solicitor boycott of s1 Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act 2018 cases

The Scottish Women’s Rights Centre (SWRC) is a unique collaborative project that provides free legal information, advice and representation to women affected by violence and abuse.

We are aware of the decision by the Scottish Solicitor’s Bar Association to decline instructions in summary cases involving charges brought under S1 of the Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act 2018 where the accused seeks legal aid.

Rape culture in education: what is it and how can we end it?

Gender-based violence and sexual misconduct on university and college campuses in the UK is described as an epidemic. Gender-based violence is a symptom and a cause of gender inequality in our society, so a culture shift is required to prevent it.