Upgraded Sexual Assault Referral Centre opens to support survivors across County Durham and Darlington

The Meadows Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC), in Chester-le-Street, has reopened following an extensive refurbishment.

The centre provides a confidential safe space offering medical care, forensic services, and emotional support for those who have been affected by sexual violence. It is open to anyone, and support is available whether or not they choose to report to the police.

It delivers trauma‑informed services including medical care, forensic examination and crisis support for survivors, who are supported in a calm, non‑judgemental environment designed to protect their dignity, wellbeing and choice.

The refurbishment has been made possible through an investment of £101,667 provided from the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for County Durham and Darlington, Joy Allen, and funding from NHS England.

This funding has enabled the development of a modern, welcoming and fully equipped centre that brings together specialist staff and facilities under one roof.

PCC Joy Allen said: “Every survivor deserves to be heard, believed and supported. The re-opening of The Meadows SARC is a significant step in ensuring that victims of sexual violence across County Durham and Darlington have access to a safe, compassionate and specialist service whenever they need it. Survivors’ recovery, dignity and wellbeing must always be our highest priority.”

Sexual violence remains one of the most under‑reported crimes. From October to December 2025, 607 rape and sexual offences were reported directly to the police. This is 11 more than the same period in 2024 (up 1.8%).

Dave King, Head of Health and Justice at NHS North East and Yorkshire, said:  "The Meadows sexual assault referral centre provides an essential service for the Durham population. The reopening of this upgraded facility is an important part of our continued commitment to working closely with the region’s Police and Crime Commissioners, our partners and provider to ensure victims and survivors of sexual violence continue to receive the highest quality support services.

“We strongly encourage anyone who has been raped or sexually assaulted to use a SARC, which provides wrap-around specialist care and support 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The adult services are accessible by self-referral and individuals do not have to report to the police to get help. These are tried-and-tested services which support men, women and children."

Ellie McIntyre, SARC Manager at The Meadows, said: "The re-opening of the upgraded Durham SARC represents a significant step forward in strengthening sexual assault services across the North East. The improvements in our environment, processes and forensic facilities directly support enhanced access, clearer pathways and stronger outcomes for survivors.

“A 36% recent rise in forensic attendance reflects exceptional partnership working — particularly with police and local agencies — enabling more timely referrals, improved conversion to appointments and equitable access to care.

“This investment, alongside our ongoing work towards UKAS accreditation and our national training frameworks, ensures that Durham continues to deliver a consistently high quality, trauma informed service for all those who need it most."

Located in Chester-le-Street, The Meadows is accessible to people of all genders, backgrounds and ages 18+, also seeing 16 to 17-year-olds with no vulnerabilities. Support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and survivors can access services without making a police report.

If you have been raped or sexual assaulted at any time in your life, The Meadows SARC can help. You can contact them on 0330 223 0099 or online at www.sarcdurham.co.uk