Get help and stay safe after a crime
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999 now and ask for the police or an ambulance. You can get help…
Guidance and tools
Victims of crime
Find support, understand your rights and get help with what happens next after a crime.
About this information
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Guidance and support
Get support after a crime
You do not have to report a crime to police to get help. You can contact a support service directly, even if you are…
Reporting a crime: your options
You do not have to report a crime to police to get help. You can get emotional, practical and specialist support while you decide…
Get an update about your case
To ask about your case, contact the police officer or team dealing with it. Their details should be in the confirmation you received when…
Your rights and personal information
You have rights after a crime. You should be treated with respect, dignity, sensitivity and compassion. You can ask questions about your rights and…
Going to court as a victim or witness
You may not have to go to court. If the person charged pleads guilty, there is usually no trial. If there is a trial…
Challenge a decision or make a complaint
Different problems have different routes and time limits. Choose the problem you want to raise. You can ask a support service to help you…
Money and practical help after a crime
If you need help with money, housing or practical problems now, do not wait for a criminal case or compensation claim. You may be…
Reporting a crime to the police
Learn how to report a crime, when to call 999, and how to report a non emergency or give information anonymously. This guide also…
After sentencing and release
If you are worried about your safety now, call 999. Contact police if someone contacts you when they should not, threatens you or breaches…
Victims of crime
A practical guide for victims of crime in England and Wales. It explains support, rights under the Victims’ Code, case updates, giving evidence, safety,…
Tools and directories
Use a practical tool or search a structured criminal justice collection.
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