Victim & Witness Support

You have the right to be treated with dignity and respect by all agencies. These are your first steps.

1. Report the crime to police — even if you're unsure

   You can report to police by calling 999 (emergency) or 101 (non-emergency). You can also report online at your force's website or visit a station in person. If you're unsure whether to report, you can talk it through with Victim Support first — they're not the police and conversations are confidential.

   West Midlands Police — report a crime (opens in new tab)
2. Know you will be automatically referred to Victim Support

   When you report a crime to the police in England and Wales, you are automatically referred to Victim Support unless you opt out. Victim Support is a free, independent charity offering emotional and practical help. You can also refer yourself without ever having reported to police.

   Victim Support (opens in new tab)
3. Understand the Victims' Code — your legal rights

   The Code of Practice for Victims of Crime (Victims' Code) sets out the minimum service you are entitled to from criminal justice agencies. This includes the right to information about your case, the right to make a Victim Personal Statement, and the right to enhanced support if you're a vulnerable or intimidated witness.

   The Victims' Code — your rights (opens in new tab)

The emotional impact of crime is real and can be lasting. Please do not face it alone — reaching out is a sign of strength.

1. Call Victim Support's free helpline — 0808 16 89 111

   Victim Support's helpline is free, confidential, and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Whether you want to talk about the crime, get practical advice, or just have someone listen — they are there.

   Victim Support — 0808 16 89 111 (opens in new tab)
2. Access free specialist counselling

   Victim Support and other specialist services offer free counselling by therapists trained in trauma and victimisation. If you've experienced sexual violence, rape crisis centres also provide specialist therapeutic support with ISVAs (Independent Sexual Violence Advisers).

   RASASC — rape and sexual abuse support (West Midlands) (opens in new tab)
3. Understand post-traumatic stress and where to get help

   Many crime victims experience symptoms of PTSD — flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, or emotional numbness. These are normal responses to abnormal events. Your GP can refer you to specialist trauma therapy (EMDR or trauma-focused CBT), which is highly effective.

   Mind — PTSD information (opens in new tab)

If a case goes to court, you'll need support throughout the process. You have specific rights as a witness, and you don't have to navigate it alone.

1. Ask for a pre-trial court familiarisation visit

   Giving evidence in court can be frightening. You are entitled to visit the court before the trial to see the layout, the witness box, and understand the process. Your Witness Care Officer or Victim Support can arrange this. Knowing what to expect significantly reduces anxiety.

2. Request special measures if you need them

   If giving evidence in open court feels impossible — particularly for victims of sexual violence, children, or those with disabilities — you can apply for special measures. These include giving evidence via video link, behind a screen, or with a supporter present.

   Special measures for vulnerable witnesses (opens in new tab)
3. Write a Victim Personal Statement (VPS)

   A VPS is your opportunity to explain, in your own words, the impact the crime has had on you. It is read by the judge when sentencing. You don't have to write one, but many victims find it gives them a voice in a process that can feel like it's happening to them rather than for them.

If you've suffered physical or mental injury as a result of a violent crime, you may be entitled to compensation — even if the offender was never caught.

1. Apply to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA)

   CICA provides financial compensation for victims of violent crime. You don't need to wait for a prosecution or conviction. Applications must usually be made within 2 years of the crime. Victim Support can help you complete the application.

   Apply to CICA (opens in new tab)
2. Check if you're entitled to practical expenses

   In some cases you may be able to reclaim expenses related to the crime — property replacement, lost earnings from attending court, or travel to support services. Ask your Witness Care Officer or Victim Support adviser what you may be able to claim.

Your long-term safety matters. There are legal orders and practical steps that can reduce the risk of further harm.

1. Apply for a Restraining Order

   If you're being harassed or threatened, courts can impose a Restraining Order prohibiting the offender from contacting or coming near you. These can be applied for whether or not a criminal prosecution is underway. Speak to the police or a solicitor.

2. Use the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (Clare's Law) if relevant

   If you're in a new relationship and concerned about a partner's history of violence, you can formally request information from the police under Clare's Law. This is a confidential process and can give you the information you need to make safe choices.

   Clare's Law — domestic violence disclosure (opens in new tab)