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This two-module course presents Doctors and Nurses with the opportunity to train towards conducting forensic examinations of rape and sexual assault victims, under the direction of the UK’s longest established sexual assault referral centre and largest single-site university.

The course includes the medical, psychological, social and legal aspects of rape and sexual assault, focussing on the forensic examination, the collection of evidence and testimony at court. The curriculum covered will help clinicians prepare to take the membership exam for the FFLM and also the Diploma FCASA. This Dip FCASA is held by the Apothecaries. The Department of Health is aiming for all clinicians in this line of work to have at least the Dip FCASA qualification. St. Mary’s FMERSA Course covers the syllabus for this and will provide an excellent study resource.

All sessions are presented by expert practitioners in their fields, two of whom sit on the development board of Dip FCASA. Dr Cath White, the Course Director, is the Deputy Chief Examiner for the Sexual Offences aspect of the MFFLM.

Each module comprises six days: attendance in January  AND March is required for Module One and attendance in September, AND October dates are required for Module Two.

Chancellors Hotel & Conference Centre, Fallowfield, Manchester.

 

Module One – Principles

This module provides a comprehensive introduction to the forensic medical examination, including classifying and documenting injuries. The wider criminal justice context of police and legal processes are also explored, as well as forensic science, ethics, child protection, statement writing, and social and psychological issues.

 

Assessment is by a one-hour unseen examination and a 2,500 word assessed essay. A complement of visits to relevant agencies and observations of forensic examinations must also be conducted.

 

Module Two – Practice

This module provides a deeper level of detail around forensic medical and medico-legal aspects of work with rape and sexual assault. With a strong focus on the practical, the module includes paediatric examination and role of the professional witness. Further subjects include criminology, forensic odontology, effects of drugs and age, vulnerable adults, psychological effects and advanced legal issues including court role play.

Assessment is by a 5,000 word assessed essay. A complement of visits to relevant agencies and observations of forensic examinations must also be conducted.

 

Entry Requirements

  • Registered Medical Practitioner
  • Registered General Nurse at band 5 or above, or equivalent other qualified healthcare professional
  • An undergraduate Diploma or equivalent from an approved University, or other approved institution of higher education (120 level 1 & 120 level 2 credits)
  • Experience of practice in Women’s Health, Sexual Health, Accident and Emergency or General Practice
  • Understanding of health, social and legal issues around rape and sexual assault
  • Those applying for Module Two who are intending to practice as forensic examiners must have successfully completed Module One within past five years (or demonstrate equivalent skills and knowledge)

 

Fees

Non-residential – £1,850 per individual module (taught sessions only). Booking both modules reduces the fees to £3,500.

 

Residential – £2,000 per individual module which includes full board during the course of the taught sessions. Booking both modules reduces the fees to £3,800.

 

Payment must be made in full before the course commences.

 

Please direct all course enquiries and requests for application forms to:

 

Charlotte Batra

Training and Events officer

St. Mary’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre

St. Mary’s Hospital, Oxford Road

Manchester

M13 9WL

 

0161 701 2322

Charlotte.batra@cmft.nhs.uk

www.stmaryscentre.org