Forensic Nurse Advisor
The forensic nurse advisor is a dedicated role to support the military community, currently based in Catterick Garrison dedicated to supporting active service members, veterans, and their close family members who have experienced rape or sexual assault.
For further information please get in touch by calling 0330 223 0099 or send an email to acer.house@nhs.net or emma.hatfield@mountainhealthcare.co.uk
Meet your FNA (Emma Hatfield)
In my role, I collaborate closely with Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) and consider my role an extension of their services, and an active Armed Forces Champion. For recent incidents, I am a qualified forensic practitioner capable of conducting comprehensive medical examinations to collect forensic evidence for those choosing to engage with the police. For individuals who opt not to involve the police, all interactions remain strictly confidential, with exceptions made only for necessary safeguarding measures.
Beyond forensic services, I provide crucial healthcare support, including administering emergency contraception and facilitating referrals, which maybe within their unit such as welfare teams or to appropriate external medical and support services.
Additionally, I am experienced in delivering specialised training to military personnel, including commanding officers, welfare teams, and the Defence Medical Services, ensuring comprehensive awareness and readiness within the military community.
Helpful Resources
Download our leaflets to learn more about the services and the support available to the military community.
What's the latest?
Emma Hatfield Appointed as the Forensic Nurse Advisor, Sexual Assault, Military for Yorkshire and Humber Region
In Sept 2023, Emma Hatfield was appointed as a Forensic Nurse Advisor for Sexual Assault (military) as part of the newly re-commissioned SARC service for Yorkshire and the Humber Region.
Emma is based in Catterick Garrison at Harewood Medical Practice. Catterick Garrison is the largest Military Garrison in Europe, home to over 13,000 serving personnel. This new role aims to provide specialist support and care for members of the military community who have experienced rape or sexual assault, encompassing serving and ex-serving personnel, and family members. Emma brings over eight years of experience as a Forensic Nurse Examiner and SARC Manager.
The role is not just about immediate healthcare and forensic examinations; it encompasses a comprehensive approach to victim support. Emma facilitates essential pathways between military bases and SARC services, ensuring survivors receive the multifaceted care they deserve.
Her work includes educating various military units, from Junior Soldiers to Commanding Officers, to raise awareness of the SARC and emphasise the importance of immediate support and collaborative intervention for those who disclose their experiences, to help them on their healing journey. Since the development of the role, there has already been an increase in attendance at the SARC.
Emma Hatfield was a guest speaker at a women’s empowerment focus group with the Royal Artillery.
Get in contact
with us
Access Confidential Support
All referrals from Police and professionals should be made by telephone:
0330 223 0099
Drop In Service
A local drop-in service, every Tuesday 10am – 2pm at Catterick Garrison Community Hub, Loos Rd, DL9 4SP.
