"Many victims of sexualized violence don't know that they can have evidence secured anonymously without having to decide immediately whether or not to report it," explains Claudia Sciannimanica from the SKFM's Violence Protection Department. "We want to change that."
After an act of violence, those affected are often in a state of emergency. Many do not want to press charges at first - but time is of the essence when it comes to securing evidence. If possible, this should be done before the first shower.
In Hilden, women and girls aged 16 and over can have anonymous medical evidence secured at St. Josef Hospital (GFO Kliniken Mettmann-Süd). This makes it one of a total of three hospitals in the Mettmann district. The evidence is stored for up to five years. The traces are only passed on to the investigating authorities if the person concerned actively decides to press charges. If no report is made, they are destroyed after the deadline has expired.
"Experience shows that many proceedings fail without secured evidence. That's why Anonymous Forensics is such a valuable service - it gives women back their time and decision-making authority," explains Claudia Sciannimanica.
The poster campaign is part of the international Orange Days, which take place annually from November 25 to December 10. During this period, people around the world send a visible signal against violence against women.