Updated 2 July 2026
We carried out this announced on-site assessment on 21 July 2026.
The Children’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) provides medical, forensic, practical and emotional support to children and young people who have experienced sexual assault, including rape. The service is staffed by specialist forensic paediatric consultants and crisis workers who support children and young people throughout their care and treatment.
The SARC is jointly commissioned by NHS England and the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority and is hosted by Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust.
The premises are designed to meet the requirements of ISO 15189 and the Forensic Science Regulator’s standards, supporting the collection, preservation and management of high-quality forensic evidence. At the time of our inspection, the service was progressing towards assessment and accreditation by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS).
As part of our assessment, we spoke with 2 forensic paediatric consultants, the SARC manager, 3 crisis workers, the operational manager and administrative staff. We also sought feedback from NHS commissioners and police partners who worked closely with the service and were familiar with the quality of care provided.
We inspected the premises, including arrangements relating to accessibility, infection prevention and cleanliness. We reviewed a range of policies, procedures and governance records and examined patient records to assess the quality and safety of care being delivered.
We assessed 10 quality statements across the Safe, Effective, Caring, Responsive and Well-led key questions.
Overall, we found that the provider was meeting the relevant regulations and delivering a high standard of care to children and young people. The service benefited from strong leadership, committed staff and effective partnership working with safeguarding, health and criminal justice agencies. Children and young people received compassionate care from a highly skilled team. Assessments were comprehensive, risks were identified and managed appropriately, and care was delivered in accordance with current national guidance and best practice.
Areas for further development included strengthening oversight of staff training and competency compliance and implementing a more structured programme of clinical audits.