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Dealing with crime

Many of us will be touched by a crime in our lifetimes, either as a victim or a witness.

This section will help you protect yourself by explaining how to prevent crime. It will also tell you what to do if you are involved in an incident.

Preventing crime

It is worth carrying out a few basic precautions to protect yourself and your property. See the following websites for advice on personal and property safety.

Reporting crime

If you come across an emergency or a crime in progress, telephone 999 immediately. If you want to report a crime that has already taken place, call your local police station – their number will be in the phone book. Do not call 999 for details of your local police station.

Domestic violence

If you are a victim of domestic violence don't suffer in silence. There are many support networks just waiting to help you, so get in touch.

Vehicle crime

Car crime is one of the most common crimes that most of us will encounter. Whether it is buying a vehicle that turns out to have been stolen or having a vehicle stolen or broken into, there are steps you can take to protect yourself.

Victim support

Being a victim of crime can be devastating and some people find can make getting on with your life very difficult. There are a lot of sympathetic support groups who can give you practical advice and emotional support, so don't suffer alone. Your local police station will be able to give you information about organisations in your area.

Compensation for crime

If you have been injured, or your earnings have suffered as the result of somebody else's criminal activity, you could be entitled to compensation. Find out more from the websites below.

Website approved by the Plain English Campaign

East Sussex County Council, County Hall, St Anne's Crescent, Lewes, BN7 1UE. Tel: 01273 481000