Crime, Police & Charge
01 — Reporting a Crime
Reporting a crime can feel like a huge step, but it sets everything in motion and you're entitled to support from the very start. Call 999 in an emergency or if you're in immediate danger, 101 for non-emergencies, or report online through police.uk.
When you report, you can expect to be given a log or reference number (keep this — you'll need it for updates), to give a brief initial account of what happened, and, for certain crimes, to be asked safeguarding and risk-assessment questions. These questions can feel intrusive, but they're there to keep you safe and to make sure you get the right support. You don't have to have every detail straight to report — tell them what you can.
02 — Police Investigation & Your Rights
Once you've reported, the police begin investigating. This usually involves taking your full statement, gathering evidence, speaking to witnesses, interviewing the suspect, and reviewing the case. You can have someone with you when you give your statement, and you can ask for breaks.
You have clear rights under the Victims' Code, the law that sets out how you must be treated. These include the right to be kept informed about your case, to receive updates at key stages, to request special measures if you have to give evidence later, to make a Victim Personal Statement explaining how the crime has affected you, and to be referred to support services. These are entitlements, not favours — you're allowed to ask for them.
03 — Charging Decisions
After the investigation, a decision is made on whether to charge the suspect. The possible outcomes are no further action (NFA), an out-of-court disposal (such as a caution), a charge, or release on bail with conditions while matters continue. If the suspect is released under investigation (RUI), it means enquiries are ongoing — there's no fixed time limit, but the police should keep you updated and you can ask for an update at any time.
You have the right to be told the decision and the reasons for it, and to ask about delays. Importantly, if you believe a decision not to charge was wrong, you can ask for it to be looked at again through the Victim's Right to Review — you don't have to simply accept it.
Going to Court
04 — Going to Court as a Victim
If your case goes to court, you may be asked to give evidence as a witness. This is the part many victims worry about most — but you won't face it alone, and there are protections in place specifically for you.
Special measures are arrangements the court can put in place to make giving evidence easier: a screen so you can't see the defendant, a live video link from a separate room, or clearing the public gallery. If you're a victim of a sexual offence, domestic abuse, or modern slavery, you're automatically entitled to be considered for these — ask early.
Before the day, you can often arrange a pre-trial visit to see the courtroom, and you'll be kept in a separate waiting area away from the defendant. During evidence you'll answer questions from both sides; cross-examination can feel hard, but the judge can step in if questioning becomes unfair. Take your time, ask for questions to be repeated, and say if you need a break.
After Court
05 — What Next
If the defendant is convicted, the sentence may include prison, a community sentence, probation supervision, or a restraining order to keep them away from you. If they receive a prison sentence of 12 months or more for a violent or sexual offence, you may be eligible for the Victim Contact Scheme, which keeps you informed about their progress and release.
If the defendant is acquitted, it can be devastating — but you still have rights: to an explanation, to ongoing support, and to safety advice. A restraining order can sometimes still be made even after an acquittal.
If the case is discontinued, you keep the right to ask for a review, the right to information, and access to emotional and practical support. Whatever the outcome, your safety still matters and protective measures may still be available to you.
Compensation
06 — If you've been the victim of a violent crime.
You may be entitled to compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA), a government scheme covering England, Scotland and Wales. It can cover physical and psychological injuries, loss of earnings, and certain related costs.
This is separate from any court outcome — you can apply even if no one is convicted, or if no one is ever charged. There are time limits for applying (usually within two years of the crime, though there are exceptions), so it's worth looking into sooner rather than later.
Official Guidance & Useful Links
Trusted, official sources where you can find more detail or take the next step. These are government and criminal justice resources — free to use.
Sentencing Council Guidelines
Understand how sentences are decided and the factors judges must consider.
→ Sentencing Council – official guidance
Compensation for Victims of Crime (CICA)
Information on making a claim and who is eligible.
→ Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (GOV.UK)
Your Right to Review
If you believe a charging or no-further-action decision was wrong, you can ask for it to be reviewed.
→ CPS Victims' Right to Review scheme
Victim Contact Scheme
If the offender is sentenced to 12 months or more for a violent or sexual offence, this scheme keeps you informed about their sentence and release.
→ Victim Contact Scheme (GOV.UK)
Protective Orders for Stalking & Harassment
Information on stalking protection orders (SPOs) and other court protections.
→ Stalking protection orders – statutory guidance (GOV.UK)
Your Right to Information (Victims' Code)
What updates you should receive from the police and the CPS.
→ The Code of Practice for Victims of Crime (GOV.UK)
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