NEW data published in recent months has revealed that incidents of rape and sexual assault have been reported at Ayrshire's two biggest hospitals.

Alleged offences have been brought to Police Scotland over a period of more than five years, from the beginning of 2019 until the end of July this year.

The data has been disclosed following various freedom of information requests made to the health board in the summer months.

A response has now been provided and published which details reports of such incidents at both University Hospital Crosshouse and University Hospital Ayr.

During the requested time period, the data revealed that one report had been brought to Police Scotland with regards to rape at Crosshouse.

One further report was received by the force in relation to an alleged sexual assault at the hospital.

Of the two matters brought to police, one incident was alleged to have taken place on a hospital ward. It was not disclosed which report this referred to.

Only one of the reported crimes has been considered as "detected" - meaning an accused has been identified and there exists a sufficiency of evidence under Scots Law to justify consideration of criminal proceedings.

At University Hospital Ayr, three reports have been received by police in relations to such crimes. All of these were related to sexual assault.

One of these incidents was alleged to have taken place on a hospital ward. Of the three crimes reported to the emergency service, all are now considered to be detected.

There were no reports of any alleged offences at the county's other major hospital, Ayrshire Central in Irvine.

In light of the statistics being released, NHS Ayrshire and Arran has moved to reassure residents that it is committed to ensuring patient and staff safety.

Vicki Campbell, director of acute services, commented: "The board remains committed to ensuring the highest standards of care and to ensure patient and staff safety at all times.

"Due to patient confidentiality reasons we are unable to comment further."