Violent Crime

What is Violent Crime?

A violent crime is when someone physically hurts or threatens to hurt someone, and also includes crimes where a weapon is used. The police will record a crime as violent if the offender clearly intended or intends to physically harm you, regardless of whether or not it results in a physical injury.

Violent crimes can include:

• assault
• sexual violence (such as rape or sexual assault)
• alcohol and drug-related violence
• gang violence
• domestic violence
• hate crimes (disability, faith, gender, gender identity, race or sexual orientation)
• robbery
• murder or manslaughter

Support for victims of violent crime

It can be frightening to experience a violent crime.  As well as being physically injured you may also be affected emotionally by the crime. This could include feelings of numbness, anger, self-blame and depression - all are normal reactions to violence. 

If the violence was committed by someone close to you these feelings can be even stronger and can effect your relationships with other people.

If you have been a victim of a violent crime and are struggling to recover from the effects of the crime than you may find it beneficial to seek support and speak to someone about your experience. To find a service right for you please use the directory on the left-hand side of this page.