Post-incident measures
Once an incident has happened it is important to preserve evidence to assist with any further action or legal proceedings that might follow. Here are some of the things that may be relevant:
- Call 999: This guidance assumes the emergency services have been called, if not, this is the immediate priority. Follow the measures below until assistance arrives:
- Preserve evidence:
- Avoid touching or moving anything at the scene unless necessary to help someone in distress
- If it is safe to do so, take photographs or videos using your mobile phone to capture the overall scene and any relevant details.
- Preserve any CCTV (don’t let it be automatically deleted/overwritten).
- Give the evidence to the police as soon as possible.
- Get witness details: If there are witnesses to the incident, ask them for their contact information and a brief statement (you could record on your phone).
- Be mindful of who you talk to: After an incident there is often confusion and uncertainty. The media will often turn up and start asking questions. It is usually best to say nothing until the situation is clearer. You should avoid saying anything that:
- Details your personal information, such as home/workplace address.
- Relays information that might undermine your security or the security of colleagues.
- Exposes any thoughts or feelings about your vulnerability.
- May compromise a police investigation or future prosecution.
- Inform the employer/others who may be affected. Depending on the circumstances of the incident this could be very important. For example, the incident may influence the risk to others in a similar position and require remedial steps to be taken.
Reviewing your security after an incident
If you are a high-risk individual who has been involved in an incident that has caused concern for your safety and security, it is important to re-evaluate your security and consider what additional measures may now be appropriate:
- Re-evaluate and monitor the threat to you: You may need help and advice from the police and where applicable, your organisation, to gauge the potential threat to your safety and security and that of others in a similar position.
- Remain alert: If you have been involved in an incident it is important to retain awareness of what is happening around you (see the Be Alert section of this guidance)
- Review security measures: Review your existing security measures, including physical security, cyber security, and personal safety protocols. (see Plan Ahead information in this guidance).
- Document incidents: Keep detailed records of any new incidents or threats you experience, including dates, times, and descriptions of what occurred. This information may be useful for police investigations or legal proceedings.
Being the victim of abuse or threatening or intimidating behaviour of any kind can be extremely stressful and damaging. Seek support from trusted friends, family members, or mental health professionals if you are feeling anxious or distressed about your safety. Don't hesitate to ask for help if you need it.