Introduction to Reporting Abuse to the Police
Domestic abuse is any incident of controlling, coercive, threatening, or violent behaviour between people who are, or have been, intimate partners or family members. This can include physical violence, emotional abuse, financial control, or harassment. In the UK, domestic abuse is taken very seriously, and the law provides protection for victims under the Domestic Abuse Act 2021.
Reporting abuse to the police is an important step towards safeguarding yourself or someone else from further harm. The police are trained to respond to reports of domestic abuse and are there to help and protect victims. By coming forward, you not only access immediate support and protection but also start the process of holding the abuser accountable under the law.
This page is designed to guide you through how to report domestic abuse to the police, whether you are a victim or a witness. You’ll find information on what to expect, the rights you have, and the support available throughout the process. Reporting abuse is a crucial first step in getting help, accessing legal protection, and breaking the cycle of abuse. If you want to learn more about how domestic abuse cases are prosecuted, you can visit the Crown Prosecution Service for further details.
How to Report Abuse to the Police
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, you can report it to the police in several ways. In an emergency, always call 999. For non-emergencies, you can contact the police by calling 101, visiting your local police station in person, or using the police’s online reporting services. If you’re unsure whether to contact the police directly, you can also explore other options for reporting abuse.
When making a report, try to provide as much information as you can. This may include details about what happened, when and where the abuse took place, who was involved, and any witnesses or evidence you may have. Don’t worry if you don’t have all the details – reporting what you know is still important.
Your safety is the top priority. If you are in immediate danger, call 999 and try to get to a safe place if possible. If you’re worried about your privacy, you can ask the police about confidentiality and how your personal information will be protected. The police are trained to handle domestic abuse cases sensitively and will take your report seriously, even if you feel unsure, scared, or are not ready to press charges.
For more information about what happens after you report abuse and the support available, you can visit the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) website.
What to Expect When You Report Abuse
When you report domestic abuse to the police, you can expect a supportive and professional response. The police are trained to handle these situations sensitively and will take your report seriously from the outset.
Initial Response:
When you contact the police – whether in person, by phone, or online – they will listen carefully and ask some questions to understand what has happened. Officers will make sure you are safe and, if needed, will arrange immediate protection, such as removing the abuser from your home or providing emergency accommodation.
Risk Assessment and Immediate Action:
The police will carry out a risk assessment to decide what steps are necessary to protect you and any children involved. This may include issuing protective measures or taking action against the person responsible for the abuse. Their actions are guided by the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984, which sets out the powers and duties of the police when responding to criminal incidents.
Support During and After Reporting:
Throughout the process, the police can connect you with specialist support services and keep you informed about what happens next. You may also receive support from organisations like the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), which helps victims understand their rights and the steps involved in any legal proceedings.
Your Rights:
You have the right to be treated with respect, dignity, and sensitivity at all times. The police must keep your information confidential and explain your options clearly, so you can make informed decisions about your safety and the next steps.
For more details on what happens after you report abuse, see our sections on gathering evidence and the police investigation process.
Police Investigation Process
After you report domestic abuse to the police, they will begin an investigation to understand what happened, gather evidence, and decide on the next steps. This may include interviewing you and any witnesses, collecting physical evidence, and assessing your safety. The police are required to follow strict procedures under laws such as the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 to protect victims and build a strong case.
Investigations can sometimes take time, as the police work carefully to collect all the necessary information. Throughout the process, it’s important to stay in contact with the officers handling your case – they should keep you updated and explain what to expect.
For a detailed explanation of each stage, including what the police do to investigate and how they support victims, visit our page on the police investigation process.
Your Rights When Reporting Abuse
When you report domestic abuse to the police, you have important rights that are protected by law. You have the right to be safe and to have your concerns taken seriously. The police are required to treat all reports of abuse with respect and sensitivity, following national guidelines such as the Victims’ Code, which ensures victims are listened to and supported throughout the process.
Your right to confidentiality means that any information you share should be handled with care and only disclosed when necessary to protect you or others. You also have the right to access support services for abuse victims, including emotional support, practical help, and advice about your options. In addition, you can seek legal advice at any stage to understand your rights and the steps you can take to stay safe.
If you feel the police have not respected your rights or have not taken your report seriously, you can make a formal complaint. For more information on how to do this and what to expect, visit the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) website, which explains the complaints process and how your concerns will be handled independently.
Gathering and Preserving Evidence
Gathering and preserving evidence is a crucial part of reporting abuse to the police. Evidence helps support your account, making it easier for the police to investigate and for the authorities to take action. In the UK, the police and the courts rely on clear, reliable evidence to build a case under laws such as the Domestic Abuse Act 2021.
Practical steps you can take include keeping any messages, emails, or social media posts that show abusive behaviour. If you have visible injuries or damage to property, taking clear photographs with dates can be helpful. Medical reports from your GP or hospital visits also provide important proof. Always store this evidence somewhere safe, or consider sending copies to someone you trust.
Your safety comes first. Never put yourself at risk to collect evidence. Avoid confronting the abuser or alerting them to your actions, as this could increase danger or result in evidence being destroyed. If you are unsure, speak to the police or a support service for guidance.
For more detailed advice, visit our page on gathering and preserving evidence of abuse. You can also find out how evidence is used in prosecutions by visiting the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) website.
Other Reporting Options and Agencies
If you do not feel comfortable or safe reporting abuse directly to the police, it’s important to know that there are other agencies you can turn to for help. Social services, local authorities, and domestic abuse charities can offer support, advice, and practical assistance. These organisations are especially helpful if you need immediate safeguarding, specialist emotional support, or help with housing and children’s welfare.
In some cases, you might choose to contact these agencies first, or alongside the police. For example, if you are worried about the wellbeing of children or vulnerable adults, social services have a duty under the Children Act 1989 and the Care Act 2014 to investigate and protect those at risk. Domestic abuse charities can provide confidential advice and help you create a safety plan, even if you are not ready to involve the police.
Reaching out to multiple sources can help ensure your safety and give you access to a wider range of support. To learn more about your options and find contact details for organisations that can help, see our guide on reporting abuse to other agencies.
Support After Reporting Abuse
After reporting domestic abuse to the police, you are entitled to a range of support services designed to help you feel safe and start rebuilding your life. These services can provide emotional guidance, legal advice, financial assistance, and help with finding safe accommodation.
Emotional and Practical Support:
Specialist organisations offer confidential counselling and advice to help you process what has happened and plan your next steps. Accessing support services for domestic abuse victims can also help you develop a personalised safety plan and connect you with local resources.
Legal Support:
You have the right to seek legal protection, such as non-molestation or occupation orders, which can help keep you and your family safe. Police and support workers can guide you through the process of applying for these orders.
Financial and Housing Assistance:
If you need to leave your home or are worried about money, there are services that can help with emergency accommodation, benefits, and grants. Learn more about financial and housing assistance for abuse survivors to understand your options and how to access support.
Workplace Support:
Many employers now have policies to support staff experiencing domestic abuse. This can include flexible working, paid leave, and access to counselling. Find out more about workplace support for abuse survivors and how your employer can help you stay safe and maintain your employment.
Accessing these services can make a significant difference in rebuilding your safety and stability after reporting abuse. For comprehensive guidance on the help available, see HM Government’s Guidance on Supporting Victims of Domestic Abuse. If you are ever in immediate danger, always call 999.
