National Programme for the Care of Victims of Sex Crimes

In February 2008 NCK presented a handbook to support healthcare professionals in their treatment of victims of sex crime. This handbook was commissioned by the government and is a part of a national programme within the Swedish healthcare system. Included in the handbook is a guide with practical instructions on how to take samples and secure evidence.

The aim of this programme is to improve the treatment and care of patients within the Swedish healthcare system, providing better evidence to the judicial system in cases of sexual assault. Important areas for consideration have been the patient's interaction with medical staff, documentation and contact with the judicial system.

Handbook

NCK is also commissioned to ensure that the programme is implemented throughout the whole of Sweden. This involves investment in training and a comprehensive distribution of the handbook and guide.

Expert Group

Members of the expert group which produced the handbook and guide are Gun Heimer, senior professor and former head of NCK, Steven Lucas, pediatrician, Lotta Sundström, public prosecutor, Åsa Witkowski, head of NCK's patient services and Mariella Öberg, MD and PhD. 

Read and download Handbook and Guide in English
Handbook: National Action Programme for the Health Care and Medical Services' Reception and Care of Victims of Sexual Assault (pdf)

Guide to Care Following Sexual Assault (pdf)(Please note, the guide in English is dated 2008. A revised version is only available in Swedish.)