Reporting CSA (TW)

[Coulduseathread]

I've finally reported to the police over 20 years later. I'm not sure what the outcome will be, maybe nothing. I was wondering if anyone would be willing to share their experiences of the process, or offer a hand hold through the process.

Where are you up to? Have you given a statement?
It's a long road ahead 🌼

Not very far. I've reported, and been contacted to be told I will be contacted next week and then statement taking can be arranged.

I figured it would be a long road.

So, what happened for me..
I made an online report, Police made an appointment maybe a week later and came out to take a verbal statement which they wrote out and I signed. This was just a response officer, who was lovely, but it clearly wasn't his speciality and he was clumsy etc.
Following that the report went to CID where the decision was made to record xyz crimes. A month or two later Police got me in to do a video interview in an ABE suite...basically a room with a sofa and cameras where you sit with a detective and give as much of an account as you can, and Police ask any clarifying questions.
After that, they'll take information from you about evidence. School or college records, counselling records, anything you've told a professional, anything your friends or family know. They'll take statements from anyone else who knew at the time. Then they'll get the perpetrator in for interview and anything they say will be investigated.
I'm 11 months in and still at that stage where they're gathering my evidence and investigating whatever he's said in interview but I'm not allowed to know what he's said..
It's a very very long road. Please make sure you have supportive people around. I didnt expect it to knock me as much as it has and it's been one of the most difficult years of my life. Not trying to scare you, just I wish someone had told me.

@Zola1 Thank you for sharing your experience so far 💐 and I appreciate what your saying. Admittedly, I don't think I realised how long the road would be. If you would like any support at any stage, feel free to post or dm me.

And the same to you too... Good luck, you are doing an amazing thing. I hope it brings whatever conclusion you are hoping for x

I don't know how the process works op, but i just wanted to wish you well. You are being very brave and i hope it helps you in healing.

@Zola1 Thank you I hope the same for you too x

@gettingoldisshit Thank you