Rowan Centre
What does the Rowan Centre offer
The Rowan Centre is available for anybody in the West Midlands who has been the victim of rape or sexual assault.
The centre ensures that you have a safe and confidential environment where you can discuss the choices available to you. If you have reported the rape or sexually assault to the police we will take you to the Rowan Centre to get the care that you need.
You can also refer yourself to the centre without contacting the police by calling 0500 822 391.
We provide a range of services to support you and give you the best possible care, including medical examinations.
We will make sure that you receive support and counselling for as long as you want it, and will put you in touch with other local support agencies who can help you.
No matter what you decide we are here to offer the choices that are yours to make, and answer any questions you might have.
Will I have to inform the police?
Staff at the Rowan Centre will not press you to do anything you are not happy with. You decide whether you want to inform the police or not.
You can choose to be examined without making an official complaint to police.
We can arrange for any evidence to be tested and stored whilst giving you the space and time to consider your choices.
If you want us to, we can also gather information from you about what has happened. This means that even if you do not want to talk to a police officer, we can pass on information on your behalf.
If you do decide to talk to the police later, the evidence will still be available.
Can I provide information anonymously?
You can choose to pass on information about what has happened without giving us your name or address.
We will pass this information on for you. This means that the police can gather important intelligence without you worrying about making a statement. This information might help prevent further attacks.
If I want to make a formal complaint to the police - what will happen?
We offer support and guidance on what happens if you decide to make an official statement to the police.
We will discuss the procedure with you and arrange for any examination or statement to be taken at the Rowan Centre and we can remain with you throughout the whole process. If at any time you change your mind we will respect your decision and be guided by you.
No matter what you choose we can arrange the right support and counselling for you for the length of time you want.
You can ask for advice and support
When you contact the Rowan Centre you can arrange an appointment to come in and see us, or you might just want advice. We can arrange for a suitable support agency to call you back, usually within 24 hours, with information about their counselling and support services.