We Will Help You Report Crime To The Police
If you require support in making a report of crime to the police we are able to help you do that.
Initial report
Reporting a Crime
If you have been the victim of a crime, then you need to decide whether you want to report that crime to the police. We can support you in making that report to the police if that is required.
Our support is available whether or not you decide to report the crime to the police.
How to report
How to report crime to the police
Remember if it is an emergency and the crime is still taking place, call 999 and ask for the police.
If it is not an emergency, then Durham Constabulary can be contacted on the non-emergency number 101.
If you want to remain anonymous then you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
If you have experienced Hate Crime, then you can also report that crime or incident online through True Vision
Next steps
What happens next
Once you make a report of crime then the police will explain what will happen next. They should provide you with the details of the officer who is going to deal with your report of crime, provide you with a crime reference number and a Victim of Crime booklet. Keep this information safe as you may need it later if you need to contact the officer or make an insurance claim.
When you make a report of crime to the police it is likely they will take a witness statement from you, this statement can be used in any future criminal proceedings.
In addition to your witness statement, you should be offered the opportunity to make a Victim Personal Statement (VPS). Your VPS is your opportunity to tell the court and offender exactly how the crime has affected you. All too often, victims feel like bystanders in the justice system – it is important your voice is heard.
When you report your crime to the police, they should also offer you support from the Victim Care and Advice Service (VCAS). If you say YES to that support, then VCAS will contact you and discuss your needs. If you initially decline that offer of support but later decide you would like some help, then there is no time limit on that support being provided.
Help With Reporting
Do you tell the police everything we discuss?
We promise that all information you provide to us ‐ verbally or in writing ‐ will be kept confidential within the Victim Care and Advice Service. This information will not be shared externally unless you expressly instruct us to do so or unless we are required to under law.
We will take our time to establish the best way to communicate with you; for example, which email address, phone number or other contact method you want us to use. We will take any other steps that you need us to take to protect your privacy
Help With Reporting
How do I make a complaint to police?
We can provide you with advice about making a complaint
Help With Reporting
I don’t want to report this to police, can I still get support?
Yes, you can still receive our support
Help With Reporting
Will my personal details be shared with other organisations?
We promise that all information you provide to us ‐ verbally or in writing ‐ will be kept confidential within the Victim Care and Advice Service. This information will not be shared externally unless you expressly instruct us to do so or unless we are required to under law.
We will take our time to establish the best way to communicate with you; for example, which email address, phone number or other contact method you want us to use. We will take any other steps that you need us to take to protect your privacy.
Any Questions
If you have any questions about our services please do not hesitate to contact us