If you report a crime, you may be asked to make a statement to the police.  This is called an Achieving Best Evidence interview (ABE).  This is where you get the chance to tell them what happened, in your own words.  You can also tell them what you know about the person who did it to you.  An adult you trust should be able to stay with you while you do this.  It is important that you tell the police as many details as you can remember.  If you don’t know something, or if you can’t remember, that’s OK.

This interview is designed to allow you to tell them about your experience in your own words, without any pressure.  If you need a break at any time, you can have one.

After giving a statement, you will be given a special number called a crime number. You can use this to check the progress of your case.  The police will tell you if there is to be an investigation, whether they have caught the person who committed the crime, and whether there will be a court case.

If the case goes to court, Witness Service can support you.