Crime can have a lasting effect on you, even if you weren’t the victim or weren’t physically harmed.
If you’ve witnessed a crime - or think you may have witnessed a crime – you should report it to the police. You can do this online or by calling 101. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, or if a crime is currently in progress, you should call 999.
Depending on the nature of the crime and the amount of witnesses, the police may need to take a formal statement from you. If the police don’t need a statement, they will explain why.
If the investigation results in the case going to trial, you may be asked to attend court as a witness.
If you’ve witnessed a crime, you can get support from us at any time – it doesn’t matter what type of crime you saw or when it took place - we’re here for you, for as long as you need us.
We provide free, confidential support 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year for people affected by crime and traumatic events – regardless of whether you have reported the crime to the police or not.
All our support for witnesses of crime is tailored to each individual, but often includes:
If you’d like to speak to us to see how we can help you, contact us.
The Witness Charter sets out the minimum level of service that victims should receive from the criminal justice system. Find out more about your rights as a witness.