Sexual Assault or Rape Abroad: UK Guide to Medical Care, Reporting & Safe Return

1. Immediate Steps After an Assault Abroad

Your safety and wellbeing come first. If you have just been assaulted, try to move to a safe place as soon as possible — somewhere well-lit, populated, or where staff can help (such as a hotel reception, hospital, or embassy). If you are in immediate danger, contact the local emergency number (for example, 112 in most of Europe, 911 in the USA, 000 in Australia).

It is important to know that the assault was not your fault. Sexual assault is a crime of power and control, never consent or desire. Whether you were travelling alone, with friends, for business, or on holiday — nothing you did caused this to happen.

At this stage, your priority is to ensure your physical safety and get medical help. If you can, ask a trusted person (friend, hotel staff, travel representative, or local authority) to stay with you. If language is a barrier, request translation support from your country’s embassy or consulate.

You can also contact the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) for assistance — they can help locate nearby hospitals, support centres, and English-speaking medical staff. The FCDO can also assist in contacting family, friends, or legal representation back in the UK.

Where possible, avoid being alone with anyone you do not know or trust, especially if they claim to be an “official” without proper identification. Always ask for a translator, interpreter, or embassy contact if you feel unsure about local authorities or procedures.

If you are injured or feel unwell, go directly to the nearest hospital or medical facility. Medical care comes before any evidence collection — clinicians will ensure you are stable and safe before discussing further options such as forensic examinations. In some countries, hospitals are required to notify the police when a sexual assault is disclosed, even if you do not consent. If you are unsure about this process, you may wish to contact the nearest UK embassy or consulate before disclosing details, so you understand what will happen next.

In the UK, this role is provided by Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs). Abroad, these services may be called different names — “forensic units,” “women’s health clinics,” or “victim support centres.” Embassy staff or the FCDO can help you locate the nearest equivalent facility.

Remember, you do not have to report the assault immediately if you are not ready. Taking a moment to think about what feels right for you is okay. What matters most now is that you are safe and receiving medical and emotional support. Evidence can often still be collected and stored for later use if you wish, and embassy staff can advise on secure procedures in the country you are in.

Where available, request that medical staff are of the same sex if it helps you feel more comfortable. You are entitled to privacy, dignity, and respect throughout your care, regardless of your gender, nationality, or circumstances.

2. Accessing Emergency Medical Care: Health, SARCs, and Preventive Treatments

Your health and safety come before anything else. After a sexual assault, getting prompt medical attention can prevent infections, treat injuries, and offer options such as emergency contraception or HIV post-exposure medication (PEP). Even if you are unsure about reporting the assault, you should still seek medical help as soon as possible to protect your wellbeing.

Go directly to the nearest hospital or emergency clinic. If you do not know where to go, contact your hotel reception, travel insurance provider, or your nearest British embassy or consulate for help locating a facility with English-speaking staff or a sexual assault response team.

In the UK, specialist care is provided through Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs). If you are abroad, look for a local equivalent. These may be called forensic medical units, women’s health clinics, or victim assistance centres. Embassy staff can help you identify the right one in your location.

At the hospital or clinic, tell staff that you have been sexually assaulted — only if you feel ready to do so. You do not have to give full details; simply saying “I was sexually assaulted” is enough to ensure you receive the right care. If you need a moment before disclosing, that is okay. The focus should be on stabilising your health first. The team will then carry out a confidential medical assessment, treating injuries and screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Depending on the country and facility, you may be offered the following treatments:

• Emergency contraception (such as the morning-after pill), ideally within 72 hours but can be effective up to 5 days.
• Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) to prevent HIV, which must be started within 72 hours.
• Antibiotics to prevent other sexually transmitted infections.
• Wound care or treatment for physical injuries.
• Psychological support and crisis counselling if available on-site.

If possible, request a same-sex clinician or nurse if that will help you feel more comfortable. You are entitled to dignity and privacy throughout your care, and medical professionals must obtain your consent before any examination or treatment.

In some countries, hospitals are required by law to inform the police when a sexual assault is disclosed, even if you do not wish to make a report. If this concerns you, ask about local procedures before sharing details. You have the right to understand what will happen and to make choices that feel right for you. In the UK, you remain in control over whether the police are involved, except in cases involving children or vulnerable adults where safeguarding laws apply.

If you are unsure or feel unsafe at a local hospital, you can contact the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) to help find an alternative clinic or coordinate with a trusted private medical provider.

Once you are medically stable, you can then decide whether to have forensic evidence collected or whether to report the assault. It is your choice, and there is no right or wrong decision in that moment. What matters most is that you are safe, supported, and in control of what happens next.

3. Preserving Forensic Evidence: What Not to Do After an Assault

Once you are safe and have received or arranged urgent medical care, it’s important to consider how to preserve any evidence that could help later — even if you are not yet sure about reporting the assault. Evidence can be vital for legal action, but your comfort, consent, and sense of control come first.

Try to avoid actions that might destroy evidence before a forensic examination can take place. This includes:

• Do not wash, shower, bathe, or brush your teeth.
• Do not change or throw away your clothes, underwear, or sanitary items. If you’ve already changed, keep the items you were wearing in a clean paper bag (not plastic).
• Do not eat, drink, smoke, or use the toilet if you can avoid it — but if you must, try to retain any tissue or sanitary product used afterwards.
• Avoid cleaning or dressing wounds unless absolutely necessary for bleeding or pain control.

These steps may sound clinical, but they are crucial to protect DNA evidence that can later support a criminal case or complaint. Even if you are unsure about reporting now, having that evidence stored gives you the choice to decide later — on your own terms.

In the UK, Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) can collect and store evidence securely, even if you do not report to the police. Abroad, some hospitals and police-approved clinics offer the same service. You can ask whether they perform a “forensic medical exam” or “rape kit” collection, and if not, request a referral to a facility that can. In some countries, hospitals must inform the police when a sexual assault is disclosed — if you are worried about this, ask about local policies before providing details, or speak to the nearest UK embassy or consulate for advice.

If you are unable to get to a medical facility immediately, you can still preserve evidence yourself. Place any worn clothing, bedding, or objects related to the assault in separate paper bags or envelopes, seal them, and label them with the date and time they were collected. Keep them somewhere safe until you can hand them over to the proper authorities or medical professionals when you are ready.

If you have visible injuries such as bruises, scratches, or swelling, try to take clear photographs as soon as possible. Include the date and time if your phone or camera allows it. Avoid filters or edits — natural light works best.

Do not feel pressured to undergo a forensic exam if you are not ready. You can choose whether to have it done immediately, later, or not at all. The priority is your wellbeing and your right to decide what happens next. If you decide to delay, let the facility or embassy know so they can provide advice on safe evidence storage or transfer.

If you are in a country where you do not speak the language, request a translator or interpreter. You have a right to understand every step of what is being done and to give informed consent for any examination.

When you’re ready, embassy staff or your insurer can help you coordinate further steps — whether that’s attending a forensic clinic, contacting local police, or arranging medical repatriation home under clinical supervision.

4. Navigating Police Reporting Abroad

Reporting a sexual assault in another country can feel overwhelming, especially when you are far from home and may not understand the local language or laws. Remember, you are entitled to respect, dignity, and fair treatment wherever you are in the world.

You have the right to decide whether or not to report the assault — and when to do so. Some people choose to involve the police straight away, while others need time to think. Both are valid. What matters most is that you remain in control of your choices. No one — not police, hospital staff, family, or embassy officials — should pressure you into making a report before you are ready.

If you are considering reporting, you may wish to pause and first speak with your nearest British Embassy, High Commission or Consulate. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) can explain local procedures so you know what to expect. In some countries, hospitals are required by law to inform the police when a sexual assault is disclosed. Understanding this before you decide can help you keep control of what happens next.

If you wish to proceed with a report, embassy or consular staff can help you:

• Find English-speaking police officers, interpreters, and lawyers.
• Understand local reporting laws and whether police involvement is mandatory after a hospital visit.
• Locate local sexual assault response units or forensic services.
• Arrange safe accommodation or emergency travel documents if required.

The process of reporting may differ significantly from the UK. You might be asked to provide a written statement or return later for questioning. Always ask for a copy of any official documents you sign and keep them somewhere secure. If possible, take photos of any paperwork before handing it back to authorities.

If you feel uncomfortable dealing with local police directly, embassy staff can often attend meetings with you or liaise with the authorities on your behalf. You may also request a trusted support person, lawyer, or interpreter to be present at all times during questioning. Your consent and comfort should guide each step.

If you are not ready to report immediately, that is okay. It is common for survivors to need time before deciding whether to involve police. Keep any evidence safe (see Section 3) so you have options later. Many countries allow delayed reporting, and the embassy can confirm how long evidence remains admissible in that jurisdiction.

If you choose not to report abroad but wish to explore legal action later, this may still be possible once you are home. UK-based legal specialists, such as Blake Morgan LLP, have extensive experience supporting survivors who were assaulted overseas and later sought justice through UK courts or civil claims.

Important: In some regions, cultural attitudes and laws surrounding sexual assault can differ greatly from the UK. If you ever feel unsafe, judged, or disbelieved by local officials, remove yourself from the situation and contact your embassy or consulate immediately. They can help you relocate, arrange alternative reporting channels, or assist with returning home safely.

Whether you decide to report now, later, or not at all, remember: you are believed, you are supported, and what happened to you was a crime. You did nothing wrong, and you retain the right to seek help, justice, and safety in your own time.

5. Returning Home, Repatriation, and Continued Care

After a sexual assault abroad, it’s natural to want to return home as soon as possible to be surrounded by people you trust and receive ongoing care in the UK. Whether you return on a commercial flight, with a friend, or via a professional medical repatriation service, the key priority is ensuring that your journey is safe, private, and supported.

If you are medically stable and feel able to travel, you may choose to fly home on a regular airline. If possible, ask a trusted companion to travel with you for emotional and practical support. Airline staff can make discreet arrangements if you quietly inform them that you have experienced trauma or have medical needs — but only share what you are comfortable disclosing.

If you decide to return to the UK, the first step is usually to contact your travel insurance provider. Most policies include emergency medical repatriation cover, and insurers often have 24-hour assistance teams who can coordinate hospital discharge, medical escorts, and flights home. When you call, explain that you have been the victim of a sexual assault only if you feel ready to — it helps them prioritise your case for sensitivity and privacy. If you prefer, you can ask to speak with a call handler of the same sex. Many insurers have trained assistance coordinators experienced in supporting survivors with empathy and discretion.

If your insurer is unable to assist quickly, or if your policy does not cover repatriation, SkyCare Repatriation can help arrange a safe and discreet return to the UK. We provide both compassionate medical escort and air ambulance services for survivors who need professional support when travelling home. You may request same-sex medical professionals for comfort and privacy throughout your journey. Our clinicians ensure your health, medication, and wellbeing are continuously monitored from departure to arrival.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) may also assist by liaising with airlines or local authorities if documentation or flight clearance is required. Their staff can offer practical guidance and connect you with English-speaking contacts in the country you are in.

Before travelling, consider asking the local hospital or your doctor for:

• A fit-to-fly certificate confirming you can travel safely.
• Copies of your medical records and discharge summary (these may help your GP or support team in the UK).
• Any prescribed medications you may need during the flight home.
• Contact details of the medical staff or clinic abroad in case follow-up information is required.

For some survivors, returning home immediately isn’t possible due to ongoing investigations, legal proceedings, or medical complications. In these cases, embassy or consular staff can help you find temporary safe accommodation, counselling services, and local English-speaking doctors while arrangements are made.

When you arrive back in the UK, book an appointment with your GP or nearest Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC). They can provide a follow-up health check, arrange tests for infections, and connect you with trauma counselling or ongoing psychological support.

Remember: your recovery does not end when you land home. Returning to the UK marks the start of long-term healing — physical, emotional, and psychological. You are not alone; support is available every step of the way.

6. Aftercare on Return Home: Physical and Psychological Follow-Up

Returning home after a sexual assault can bring relief, but also new challenges. It’s normal to feel exhausted, anxious, or uncertain about what comes next. Healing is a gradual process that involves both physical recovery and emotional support. The most important step is to connect with professionals who understand trauma and can guide your next steps safely.

Once you are home, book an appointment with your GP or visit your nearest Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC). Even if you were treated abroad, follow-up testing and medical care in the UK ensure that nothing has been missed. SARCs can also connect you with Independent Sexual Violence Advisers (ISVAs), who specialise in providing ongoing practical and emotional support.

Your GP or SARC team can help arrange the following:

• Further STI and HIV testing — some infections take time to appear and may need repeat tests.
• Emergency contraception follow-up and reproductive health advice.
• Wound care or pain management if you sustained injuries.
• Referrals to trauma-focused counselling or therapies such as CBT or EMDR.
• Legal or safeguarding support if the case is ongoing.

If you were given medication overseas, take any prescriptions or medical paperwork to your GP. They can continue treatment or issue replacements if needed. It’s also helpful to give them copies of any discharge notes or hospital records from abroad — these will help ensure continuity of care.

Mental health care is equally vital. Trauma from sexual assault can manifest in many ways — nightmares, anxiety, panic attacks, or feeling emotionally numb. None of these reactions are “wrong” or unusual. Organisations such as Rape Crisis England & Wales, SurvivorsUK (for men and non-binary people), and Samaritans offer confidential support 24/7. You are never alone in this process.

If you travelled with friends or family, it’s natural that they may also struggle emotionally. Encouraging them to access counselling or support services can help everyone recover more healthily. Healing looks different for everyone — there is no set timeline, and no “right way” to feel.

Finally, if you plan to pursue legal action, keep all your documentation safely stored — medical reports, flight tickets, police statements, and photographs of injuries can all support your case later. Your GP or SARC can help you obtain certified copies if needed for legal or insurance purposes.

Aftercare is about regaining control at your own pace. Whether that means focusing on physical recovery, beginning therapy, reconnecting with loved ones, or simply feeling safe again, each step you take is a move toward healing. Help is available — and you deserve it.

7. Legal Options After Returning Home: Seeking Justice Later

When you are safely back in the UK, you may begin to think about legal options — whether to report what happened abroad, pursue compensation, or hold individuals or organisations accountable. There is no set time limit for when you must make these decisions; it is about when you feel ready. Justice should never come at the expense of your wellbeing.

If you did not report the assault while abroad, it may still be possible to take action later. The first step is usually to contact a solicitor who specialises in international sexual-assault or travel-related claims. They can review your case, explain your rights, and advise on possible routes to justice such as civil action or criminal investigation.

UK-based legal experts, including Blake Morgan LLP, specialise in representing survivors who were assaulted overseas and later sought justice in the UK. These professionals understand both the emotional impact of sexual violence and the complex jurisdictional issues that can arise when an assault occurs in another country.

Common legal routes include:

• Reporting the assault to UK police: In some circumstances, UK police can investigate offences committed abroad under specific laws, particularly where British nationals are involved. They may also assist in gathering or sharing evidence with foreign authorities.
• Making a civil claim for compensation: This could involve seeking damages from a travel company, hotel, or employer if negligence contributed to the circumstances of the assault. A solicitor can assess whether a viable claim exists and represent you throughout the process.
• Supporting a foreign prosecution: If the case is being handled by police or courts overseas, your solicitor can liaise with those authorities, protect your rights, and coordinate communication through the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

If you reported the assault while abroad, you may be asked to provide a further statement once home. Keep copies of any paperwork, police reports, or reference numbers you were given. UK police can also help you make a follow-up report through their International Liaison or Interpol channels.

When choosing legal representation, ensure your solicitor has experience in both sexual-assault cases and cross-border litigation. You are entitled to ask about their experience before you instruct them. Legal aid may be available in some cases, and many specialist firms offer an initial consultation free of charge.

It’s important to know that even if prosecution abroad feels impossible, you still have rights under UK law. You may also be eligible to apply for counselling or financial support through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA).

Throughout any legal process, prioritise your wellbeing. Trauma-focused counselling, Independent Sexual Violence Advisers (ISVAs), and survivor networks can help you stay grounded. Legal action can be empowering when taken at your own pace — and the right legal team will respect that timing completely.

Remember: whether or not you choose to pursue legal action, you are believed, you are supported, and what happened to you was not your fault. Legal justice is one path to healing — but not the only one. Your recovery, safety, and autonomy always come first.

8. Support for Men and LGBTQ+ Survivors: Inclusive Support for All Genders

Sexual assault affects people of every gender, age, and background. While public discussion often focuses on female survivors, men, transgender, and non-binary individuals can also experience sexual violence. No one should ever feel that their experience is less valid or that help is unavailable because of their gender or identity.

Men and LGBTQ+ survivors may face unique barriers when seeking help. Some worry they will not be believed; others fear being blamed, judged, or misunderstood — particularly in cultures or environments where stigma remains strong. It is essential to know that specialist, confidential support is available for everyone.

In the UK, several organisations provide inclusive and affirming services:

• SurvivorsUK — for men, boys, and non-binary people affected by sexual violence. Offers counselling, practical advice, and online chat support.
• Galop — supports LGBTQ+ survivors of sexual assault, domestic abuse, and hate crime. Their services are confidential and respectful of identity-specific needs.
• Rape Crisis England & Wales — provides inclusive services for all genders, with some centres offering specialist male and LGBTQ+ support workers.
• Samaritans — available 24/7 for anyone struggling emotionally, regardless of gender or sexual orientation. You do not have to be in crisis to call.

If you are abroad, the UK embassy or consulate can help locate local organisations that work specifically with male or LGBTQ+ survivors. In many countries, NGOs or human-rights centres can provide safe, non-judgemental support in person or online.

For male survivors: Experiencing sexual violence can lead to feelings of shame, confusion, or questions about masculinity. None of this is your fault, and seeking help is a sign of strength — never weakness. Specialist counsellors and peer-support networks understand these emotions and can help you rebuild confidence and control.

For LGBTQ+ survivors: You deserve support that recognises your identity and respects your boundaries. If you feel unsafe disclosing your sexual orientation or gender identity in a local setting abroad, embassy staff can connect you with international or online services where you will be treated with respect and sensitivity.

All survivors — regardless of gender, sexuality, or identity — deserve equal compassion, dignity, and access to care. Sexual assault is never the victim’s fault. Inclusive, trauma-informed, and non-judgemental support can help every survivor begin to heal in their own way and in their own time.

9. Prevention and Travel Safety Advice: Reducing Risk Abroad, Not Victim-Blaming

Sexual assault is never the victim’s fault — no matter where you were, what you were wearing, or how much you had to drink. The responsibility lies entirely with the perpetrator. However, it’s understandable that many travellers want to know how they can reduce potential risks when abroad. The following advice is about situational awareness and personal safety, not blame or restriction.

These are sensible precautions that can help you travel with greater confidence:

• Know the local emergency numbers — not every country uses 999 or 911. In most of Europe, 112 works; you can find the number for your destination at GOV.UK travel advice.
• Share your plans with someone you trust — let a friend or family member know your itinerary, accommodation details, and contact information.
• Keep emergency contacts accessible — store embassy numbers, insurer helplines, and local hospital contacts in your phone and on a written note kept separately.
• Be mindful with alcohol or substances — they can impair awareness, and drink spiking does occur in some tourist areas. Accept drinks only from trusted sources and keep them in sight at all times.
• Trust your instincts — if a person, place, or situation feels uncomfortable, leave immediately. Your safety always comes before politeness or social pressure.
• Secure your accommodation — lock doors and windows, use hotel safes, and avoid publicly sharing your room number or location online.
• Plan safe transport — use licensed taxis or verified ride-share apps, and sit where you can exit easily. Avoid walking alone at night if possible.
• Be aware of local customs and laws — understanding cultural norms can help prevent misunderstandings or conflict, though nothing ever justifies an assault.
• Stay digitally connected — share your live location with a trusted contact through apps such as WhatsApp or Find My Friends when travelling alone.

Different destinations may present different challenges for women, men, and LGBTQ+ travellers. Before travelling, check the Foreign Travel Advice page for your destination to understand local safety alerts, laws, and cultural considerations. In some regions, restrictive laws or social attitudes can make reporting crimes difficult — knowing this in advance allows you to plan alternative support routes if needed.

If you ever feel unsafe abroad — whether due to harassment, threats, or unwanted attention — move to a public or well-staffed area, contact local police if safe to do so, or reach out to your embassy for help. Many embassies and consulates have emergency duty officers available 24 hours a day to assist British nationals in distress.

Finally, remember that safety advice is about empowerment, not fear. You deserve to explore the world freely and confidently. Preparation and awareness can reduce risk — but they never shift responsibility away from the offender. If the worst happens, help is available, and you will be treated with dignity, respect, and belief.

10. Supporting a Survivor: Guidance for Friends and Family

Learning that someone you care about has been sexually assaulted can be devastating. You may feel angry, helpless, or unsure what to do or say. The most important thing is to respond with belief, empathy, and patience. Survivors often fear not being believed or being blamed, so your first words and actions can have a lasting impact on their recovery.

Start by listening. Let the survivor share what they want, when they’re ready. Avoid asking for details or pressing for explanations — they’ll speak in their own time. Simple, validating phrases such as “I believe you,” “I’m so sorry this happened,” and “You did nothing wrong” help restore a sense of safety and trust.

Do not pressure them to report or take legal action. The decision to contact police or lawyers must be theirs alone. What you can do is offer to help them explore options — for example, connecting with a Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC), their GP, or the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) if the assault happened abroad.

Respect their privacy at all times. Never share their story without permission, even with good intentions. If they ask for help contacting services or arranging travel, ensure they remain in control of decisions — this reinforces autonomy and helps rebuild confidence after trauma.

Be mindful of your own emotions. Supporting someone through trauma can be emotionally demanding. It’s normal to feel upset or powerless, but seeking support for yourself is equally important. Talking with a counsellor or contacting organisations such as Samaritans or Rape Crisis England & Wales can help you process your feelings in a healthy way.

When helping a survivor return home from abroad, focus on practicalities — ensuring they have a safe place to stay, access to medical care, and emotional reassurance. If they need professional repatriation support, services like SkyCare Repatriation can help coordinate discreet medical transport and provide same-sex medical escorts if requested. Knowing that the journey home will be calm, private, and medically supported can make a real difference to their sense of safety.

Once they’re home, help them manage appointments or paperwork and check in periodically — but remember that recovery isn’t linear. There may be good days and difficult days. Continue to reassure them that their feelings are valid and that healing takes time.

Finally, remind them — and yourself — that they are not defined by what happened. With the right care and support, survivors can rebuild their lives, their confidence, and their sense of control. Being a calm, trusted presence throughout their recovery is one of the most powerful gifts you can offer.