Third party reporting
I am a victim of crime - what are my choices?
Have you ever been a victim of crime but were reluctant to report it to the police?
There are many complex reasons why some people may feel uncomfortable dealing with organisations like the police and the council, and that is why the Barnet Safer Communities Partnership (BSCP) has identified a number of third party reporting sites 
(PDF 50KB) across the borough where victims can report crimes in a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere.
Third party reporting sites are based at organisations which are well respected within the community and can demonstrate they can provide the level of confidentiality necessary.
Originally introduced in the wake of the Stephen Lawrence Inquiry to encourage the reporting of racially-aggravated crimes, the system now aims to increase the number of victims coming forward for all hate crimes, based on, for example, homophobia, faith or disability.
So how does it work?
When you visit a third party reporting site, you are under no obligation to give any of your personal details. The BSCP is able to provide a range of specialist agencies to support victims, and it is only with the victim's consent that the police will investigate a crime.
The safety and wellbeing of the victim is the most important priority at all times and only specially trained officers will investigate crimes reported through a third party.
Why is it important?
Third party reporting sites offer a practical way of helping those who would otherwise suffer in silence. It also provides the police with opportunities to draw a more accurate picture of crime, identify offenders and implement strategies to prevent crime and repeat victimisation using specialist agencies.
For more information on third party reporting, call 020 8359 5623.
Incident reporting form (PDF 57KB)
Email this pageLast modified by: Zeena Rahiman on 18/02/2010