05/10/2026
Statement of Concern Regarding Self-Swab āRape Kitsā by Greater Manchester Universities and the Gender Based Violence Action Network for Students*
We stand with partners across the sexual violence sector in raising concerns about self-swab ārape kitsā. We are particularly concerned with how organisations are targeting their promotion towards students. Manchester Metropolitan University, The University of Manchester and the University of Salford, as providers of Sexual Violence Liaison Officer support to students across the city, want to promote choice and ensure that students are fully informed on their options. We understand why, following an incident of sexual violence, students may seek alternative options, and we remain committed to ensuring that students, staff and the wider community have access to clear, accurate and evidence-based information and support.
Drawing on from knowledge shared within the sector, we do not feel that self-swab kits are a replacement for specialist support, whether that be from a university service, external charity, or local NHS Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC), who can safely collect forensic evidence. Manchester Metropolitan University, The University of Manchester and the University of Salford do not endorse these kits, and we have no partnership or affiliation with the companies behind them.
Read the full statement here: https://manchestercommunitycentral.org/news/gbvans-statement-concern-self-swab-rape-kits
