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Help guide

Police Investigations - What To Expect

Thinking about reporting an assault to the police? Find all the information you need here.

We understand that navigating your options after sexual assault can feel overwhelming and confusing. Deciding whether or not to report to the police is a deeply personal choice, and it can be helpful to have clear, accessible information about what that process might look like before making any decisions.

Knowing what to expect from a criminal investigation — from the initial report through to potential court proceedings — can help you feel more prepared, informed, and in control of your choices.

Our Independent Sexual Violence Adviser (ISVA) team have created this FAQ guide to police investigations, designed to answer common questions and explain what may happen after you decide to make a report. The guide aims to empower survivors with knowledge, reduce uncertainty, and support you in making the decision that feels right for you.

You can read the guide HERE.

If you’d like to learn more about our ISVA service, how we can support you through the process (whether you decide to report or not), or to make a referral, please click HERE.