Specialist nurses trained to examine survivors of sexual assault will be available across Scotland, the Scottish Government announced.
The role
Nurse Sexual Offence Examiners provide trauma-informed care and gather forensic evidence. Following a test of change backed by more than £700,000, the Lord Advocate approved national roll-out in March 2026, allowing them to carry out forensic medical examinations and give opinion evidence in court.
Rural benefit
Islands and rural areas, which previously relied on private forensic doctors, are expected to benefit most. Public Health Minister Maree Todd called it a significant milestone.
