Victims of rape and serious sexual offences in Devon and Cornwall now have access to a powerful new video resource explaining what happens when such crimes are reported to the police and the support available throughout the process.
The video, created as part of the wider Criminal Justice and You initiative, has been developed by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) and the Devon and Cornwall Local Criminal Justice Board (LCJB), working closely with victims and support services to ensure the content is sensitive, practical and empowering.
Specifically aimed at victims and survivors, the video explains in clear, accessible language what happens after a report is made. It covers what to expect when first speaking to a police officer, how and when formal statements are taken, what forensic and medical support is available, and how victims are supported every step of the way, regardless of when the offence occurred.
Importantly, the video reassures victims that they are in control of the process. They can choose how and when to engage with the police, and can pause or withdraw at any stage. The guide also includes information for those not yet ready to speak to the police, with signposting to independent support services that can offer help confidentially.
The video includes:
- An overview of the role of specially trained officers;
- What happens at a Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC);
- How evidence may be collected sensitively and respectfully;
- The role of the Independent Sexual Violence Adviser (ISVA), available through the Bridge Partnership, which offers ongoing, specialist support tailored to each individual;
- Accessibility features including British Sign Language (BSL).
This video sits within the Criminal Justice and You platform, a wider multimedia resource launched last year to help victims and witnesses better understand the criminal justice process. It brings together the voices of professionals, explaining their roles and what victims can expect. All content is trauma-informed, easy to follow, and developed in consultation with people who have lived experience of the system.
The Devon and Cornwall Local Criminal Justice Board is chaired by Alison Hernandez, Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, who says the video will be a reassuring tool for anyone affected by sexual violence.
She said: “We know that taking the first step to report rape or sexual abuse can be incredibly difficult. This video was created to offer clarity, reassurance and choice, to let victims know what support is available and what to expect, so they can come forward when they are ready.
“This video is another great addition to my groundbreaking Criminal Justice and You, which is a fantastic resource for anyone wanting to know what to expect after experiencing a crime.
“I know this can be a confusing and overwhelming time, so I encourage anyone who thinks they might need it to watch the videos in the resource in their own time, to take back some control over their experience.”
Criminal Justice and You can be viewed at https://victimcare-dc.org/your-journey-through-the-criminal-justice-system/
The new video can also be viewed on YouTube at https://youtu.be/qsq0y7EsecU?si=jO1mYjG3U0M8tttS
The Commissioner funds support services to help victims of any crime recover from crime. You can access free help at https://victimcare-dc.org/
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