Making a statement
If you decide to report, a specially trained officer will usually take your statement.
The process
Making a statement may happen:
- At a police station
- At a Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC)
- At your home or another safe location
You can ask for:
- An officer of a specific gender (where possible)
- Breaks at any time
- A supporter to be present
- Special measures if the case goes to court
Providing detail
The officer will ask you to describe what happened in as much detail as you feel able to give. This can feel difficult, but you can:
- Take your time
- Say if you don’t understand a question
- Ask for a pause
- Correct anything that doesn’t feel accurate
You will be asked to read through (or have read back) your statement before signing it.
After you report
The police may:
- Gather further evidence (CCTV, phone downloads, witness statements)
- Arrange a medical examination if appropriate
- Refer the case to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to decide about charges
You will be updated about key decisions. An ISVA can support you throughout this process.
Important to know
- You are not required to hand over your phone automatically — officers should explain why they are requesting information.
- You can withdraw your support for a prosecution at any time, though the police may continue in some circumstances.
- Reporting does not automatically mean the case will go to court.
How we support you
You do not have to go through this alone. Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVAs) can:
- Explain the process
- Attend appointments with you
- Help you understand your rights
- Support your wellbeing throughout