In my role as a senior police officer, I co-founded the first Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) in the UK, at St Mary's Hospital Manchester. Its aim was to provide a more caring forensic service and follow-up counselling for women who experienced rape or other serious sexual assaults. SARC prompted police, police surgeons and the courts to have a more caring attitude. SARC was opened in 1987 (the year I undertook my Fellowship).

Since its early beginnings the SARC proved a success and these are now commonplace throughout the country, located in dedicated centres. The services have since been extended to help men and children who have suffered serious sexual assault. Through my Fellowship (which took me to Australia) I was able to raise the profile of the concept of SARCs and convince many sceptics of their worth.

I am now retired and have joined the ranks of academia. I have a PhD in Classical Greek philosophy and addiction. This has presented me with the opportunity to speak to many university students. I never cease to tell them about the Fellowship and the services provided by SARC. I am pleased to say that I have encouraged others to become Fellows.