Rape Crisis Scotland

Rape Crisis Scotland (RCS) is a charity providing national helpline and email support for those affected by sexual violence. It comprises 17 independent local centers across Scotland. These centers offer services primarily through phone and text contact. RCS also provides training, such as the Equally Safe in Higher Education Toolkit, to staff at Scottish colleges and universities in collaboration with local Rape Crisis Centres and other gender-based violence organizations. The first two Rape Crisis centres in Scotland opened in Glasgow (1976) and Edinburgh (1978), with Glasgow’s centre being the longest-running in the UK. Initially reliant on volunteers and small grants, RCS now receives funding from the Scottish government. In 2018-19, they supported 5,750 people, an increase of 13% from previous years, with most users being female survivors. RCS campaigns against Scotland’s "not proven" verdict, which it argues reduces rape conviction rates. The organization works with legal and justice systems to improve outcomes for victims. Historically, early activists like Aileen Christianson were involved in addressing gender-based issues within left-wing movements. Conviction rates for rape in Scotland have dropped significantly, from 23% in 1979 to 2.9% in 2006-07. RCS emphasizes survivor-centered, trauma-informed care and requires all centers to provide dedicated women-only spaces. This commitment was central during controversies, such as the 2024 tribunal case involving Roz Adams, who won a constructive dismissal claim against Edinburgh Rape Crisis Centre. RCS centres adhere to UK-wide standards ensuring services are user-led and trauma-informed. Despite challenges, including funding cuts and organizational disputes, RCS remains focused on ...