Interviews Archives - First Light

BBC Spotlight – Self-Test Rape Kits

A huge thank you to BBC Spotlight for inviting First Light to share our concerns about self-test rape kits, and why the responsibility to collect evidence should never be placed on someone who has experienced sexual assault.

Our CEO, Lyn Gooding, joined BBC Spotlight to highlight the risks associated with these unregulated kits. This coverage follows sustained campaigning by First Light and Rape Crisis to ensure that victims and survivors receive accurate information about the support available to them, and fully understand the potential risks posed by home testing kits.

It is essential that anyone who has experienced sexual assault can access the right support, clear advice, and informed choices. This includes appropriate medical care and the safe, professional collection of forensic evidence in a clean clinical environment. Evidence collected in these settings can also be securely stored for at least two years, allowing individuals time and space to decide whether they wish to report to the police.

BBC Broadcast – 27/05/2026

The safest and most effective route for anyone who has been raped or sexually assaulted remains their local Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC).

SARCs offer specialist forensic examinations, medical care, emotional support, and safeguarding, all delivered by trained professionals. Importantly, these services are available whether or not someone chooses to involve the police.

Read more: Why experts are urging caution on DIY rape test kits – BBC News

We are grateful to the BBC for continuing to raise awareness of this important issue.

Read related news posts

National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) has issued a clear national position warning against the use of self‑swab rape kits

March 30, 2026 March 30, 2026

First Light Supports Rape Crisis England and Wales on Self-Swab Rape Kits

June 20, 2025 May 28, 2026

Working Together for Safer Communities: First Light Joins Project Vigilant in Swindon

At First Light, collaboration is at the heart of everything we do. Recently, our Swindon & Wiltshire Sexual Violence Services partnered with Wiltshire Police on Project Vigilant, a proactive initiative designed to tackle sexual violence and keep people safe during the night-time economy.

Project Vigilant brings together police officers and specialist support organisations, including The Nelson Trust, which supports sex workers, and First Light, which works with those impacted by sexual violence. This partnership ensures that vulnerable individuals have access to immediate, trauma-informed support when they need it most.

Why This Matters

Sexual violence remains a serious issue in Swindon and across Wiltshire. By working alongside the police, our Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVAs) can provide reassurance and support to those who may feel unable or unwilling to speak directly to law enforcement.

One of our dedicated ISVAs, Kate, joined the police team during the evening as part of Project Vigilant. Kate explained why this collaboration is so important:

“Swindon has a high rate of sexual violence… Sometimes victims don’t want to talk to police, they might be worried or scared, so working together like this really helps women in Swindon and Wiltshire.”

A Shared Commitment to Safety

This joint approach means that survivors are not alone. Whether it’s offering immediate emotional support, guiding someone through their options, or simply being a trusted presence, our ISVAs play a vital role in making communities safer.

We are proud to stand alongside Wiltshire Police and other partners in creating safer spaces and ensuring that every individual has access to the help they need.

Learn more about Project Vigilant and its impact: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cd74rdw90xjo