The procedures for reporting incidents of violence in Newhaven, Lewes, are broadly the same as those applicable across the United Kingdom, though understanding the context of the area is important. Newhaven, a Built-Up Area (BUA) with a population of 14,298, currently has a crime rate of 117.1 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is higher than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, suggesting a potentially heightened risk of experiencing or witnessing violent incidents. The area also has a safety score of 74/100, which is below the UK average of 79, further reinforcing this perception.
Emergency Situations (999): If you are currently experiencing violence, witnessing a crime in progress, or believe someone is in immediate danger, always dial 999. This connects you directly to the police emergency services. Be prepared to provide your location and a clear description of the situation.
Non-Emergency Situations (101): For incidents that have already occurred or are not immediately threatening, you should contact the police on 101. This is the non-emergency number for the police. You can also report incidents online through the Sussex Police website (sussex.police.uk), which allows for detailed information to be submitted and tracked.
Online Reporting: The Sussex Police website offers a secure online reporting platform. This is a convenient way to report incidents that do not require an immediate response. You’ll be guided through a series of questions to gather necessary information, which can be beneficial for investigations.
What Information to Provide: When reporting any incident, be prepared to provide as much detail as possible. This includes the date, time, and location of the incident, a description of what happened, and any information about the individuals involved. Even seemingly minor details can be crucial for the police investigation.
Victim Support: If you have been a victim of violence, remember that support services are available. Victim Support is a national charity offering practical and emotional support to victims of crime. You can find more information and contact details on their website (victimsupport.org.uk). The police will also provide information on victim support services when reporting an incident.