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What happens straight after you contact the police
When you report a sexual offence, the police should take your account seriously and treat you with sensitivity. They may ask for basic details about what happened, when it happened, and whether you are in immediate danger. If you need urgent help, they can arrange protection or emergency support straight away.
You do not need to have all the facts perfectly clear before making a report. It is okay to say only what you remember and to explain if you are unsure about timings or details. The police should not pressure you to give more than you feel able to share at first.
Getting specialist support and a trained officer
In many areas, a specially trained officer or investigator will be assigned to your case. They should explain the process, keep in touch with you, and help you understand your options. You may also be offered a Sexual Offence Liaison Officer or similar support.
You can ask for a female or male officer if that would help you feel more comfortable. The police should do what they can to support your needs, although availability may depend on the area and the circumstances. You can also ask for an interpreter or other communication support if needed.
Evidence, statements and medical help
The police may ask you to provide a formal statement about what happened. They may also discuss preserving evidence, such as clothing, messages, photos, or details of any witnesses. If the offence happened recently, they may suggest a forensic medical examination.
A sexual assault referral centre, often called an SARC, can provide medical care and forensic support. You do not have to report to the police to get help from a SARC in many cases. Staff there can explain your choices and support you whether or not you want a criminal investigation.
Your choices and what happens next
You should be told about your options at each stage, including whether you want to continue with a police investigation. In some cases, the police may interview the suspect, gather other evidence, and refer the case to the Crown Prosecution Service. You may be asked for further information as the investigation continues.
Some cases move slowly, and that can feel frustrating. The police should keep you updated about important developments and explain any delays where possible. If you decide not to proceed, you can still ask about support services and your right to report later if you change your mind.
Confidentiality and support after reporting
The police will usually keep your report as confidential as the law allows, but they may need to share information with other agencies involved in the case. They should explain what will be shared and why. If you have concerns about privacy, you can raise them with the officer in charge.
It is normal to feel shaken after reporting a sexual offence. You can seek support from a GP, a sexual violence support service, or a specialist helpline. Getting help early can make the process feel more manageable, even if the investigation takes time.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are in immediate danger, call 999. Otherwise, try to get to a safe place, consider contacting a trusted person or support service, avoid washing or changing clothes if possible, and contact the police when you feel able to do so.
You can contact your local police force by phone, online reporting, or by visiting a police station. You can also ask a sexual violence support service to help you make the report.
If possible, keep any evidence such as clothing, messages, photos, or records of injuries. Try not to wash, bathe, or dispose of items that may help an investigation, but report even if you have already done these things.
You can make an anonymous report in some situations, but the police may need your details to investigate properly. Support services can explain what options are available and what happens with each one.
No, you do not need proof to make a report. The police can take your statement and decide what evidence may be available as part of their investigation.
It helps to have the date, time, location, names or descriptions of people involved, any witnesses, and details of messages, calls, photos, or injuries. If you do not remember everything, you can still report what you do know.
Police should treat your report seriously and take it carefully. You do not need to be perfect or remember every detail, and support services can help if you are worried about being judged.
Yes, you can usually ask a trusted friend, family member, or support worker to go with you. You can also ask for an Independent Sexual Violence Adviser or similar support if available.
The police will usually take an initial account, explain next steps, and may arrange a more detailed interview later. They may also discuss evidence, safeguarding, and whether you need specialist support.
The first report can be brief, but the full process may take much longer. The time depends on the details of the case, whether immediate safeguarding is needed, and what evidence must be reviewed.
Yes, you can still report even if the offence happened months or years ago. The police will consider the circumstances, and older reports can still be investigated.
Not always. Some cases do not go to court, but if there is a prosecution you may be asked to give evidence. The police and support services can explain the process if that happens.
Yes, you can still report. The police should focus on the offence, not blame you for what you were doing, and support services can help you through the process.
Children and young people can report sexual offences to the police, and they should receive extra safeguarding and support. A trusted adult, social worker, or specialist service can help you make the report safely.
Yes, you can report regardless of your relationship to the person who offended. The police can also consider safety measures if you are worried about contact or retaliation.
Support may include an Independent Sexual Violence Adviser, counselling referrals, sexual assault referral centres, victim support, and safeguarding measures from the police. You can ask what is available in your area.
Usually no. You can give an initial account first and may provide a fuller statement later when you are ready and have support in place.
You can ask, and police will try to accommodate your preference where possible. If not possible immediately, they should still ensure you are supported appropriately.
Tell the police about your concerns as soon as possible. They can consider safety planning, protective measures, and referrals to support services to reduce the risk to you.
If you are in immediate danger, call 999. For non-emergency police help, call 101, and for specialist support you can contact a sexual assault referral centre or a sexual violence helpline in your area.
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