Statement of Concern: Self-Swab ‘Rape Kits’

We stand with partners across the sexual violence sector in raising concerns about self-swab ‘rape kits’.  We are particularly concerned with how organisations are targeting their promotion towards students. Manchester Metropolitan University, The University of Manchester and the University of Salford, as providers of Sexual Violence Liaison Officer support to students across the city, want to promote choice and ensure that students are fully informed on their options. We understand why, following an incident of sexual violence, students may seek alternative options, and we remain committed to ensuring that students, staff and the wider community have access to clear, accurate and evidence-based information and support.

Drawing on from knowledge shared within the sector, we do not feel that self-swab kits are a replacement for specialist support, whether that be from a university service, external charity, or local NHS Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC), who can safely collect forensic evidence. Manchester Metropolitan University, The University of Manchester and the University of Salford do not endorse these kits, and we have no partnership or affiliation with the companies behind them.   

Specialist organisations across the UK who provide support to victims of sexual violence have raised their concerns about these kits. The Faculty of Forensic & Legal Medicine at the Royal College of Physicians have recommended that these kits are not used, which was supported by Rape Crisis England and Wales, and more recently, the National Police Chiefs Council / National Centre for tackling Violence Against Women and Girls and Public Protection issued a clear statement regarding these kits.

Universities aim to create safe and supportive environments where students' wellbeing is our main priority.  University students can work with specialist staff, who are trained to provide support and information following rape or sexual assault. Your university has a dedicated team that you can contact via an online disclosure platform called Report and Support, empowering you to make your own choices, when you’re ready and ensuring you have access to specialist help (Report and Support Manchester; Report and Support MMU;  Report-it University of Salford).This may include signposting to the local SARC, which does not require you to make a Police report to access their services.

We offer support to all survivors, regardless of gender, sexuality, or background. We can also offer support to those who are supporting a survivor.  Whether an incident happened recently or some time ago, help is available and you do not have to face it alone.

*The Gender Based Violence Action Network for Students is an action group of Greater Manchester Universities, Students’ Unions and student groups, and statutory and voluntary organisations. GBVANS members endorse this statement of concern.