Sexual assault videos aim to quash myths and encourage victims to come forward – NZ Police

Police hope a series of videos they have developed about reporting sexual assault will help victims to come forward.

The videos take a step-by-step look at what happens when a person reports a sexual assault to Police.

“It takes courage to come forward, to tell us what has happened,” says Detective Superintendent Tim Anderson, National Crime Manager.

“We know that sexual assault is grossly underreported for a variety of reasons, including not knowing what happens after you report an assault or fear of the process.

These videos show what’s actually involved in the reporting process.

There are ten videos in total, six covering the reporting process and four that focus on consent, myths about sexual violence and some of the reasons why people don’t report sexual assaults to Police.

1. Reporting Sexual Assault To Police – Steps 1-5
2. How To Report – Step 1
3. First Interview – Step 2
4. Emotional Support – Step 3
5. Medical Check Up – Step 4
6. Formal Interview – Step 5
7. Why People Don’t Report Sexual Assault – university students share their views
8. Sexual Consent – university students share their views
9. Quick Facts: Sexual Violence – featuring Dr Cathy Stephenson
10. Quick Facts: Sexual Consent – featuring Dr Cathy Stephenson

“Knowing what to expect can debunk myths and alleviate fears and that’s our aim,” says Mr Anderson.

“We hope by releasing these videos we will help people by showing them what happens throughout the process.”

The videos also highlight the vital working partnership Police has with support agencies in the area of reporting sexual assault.

That collaboration helps ensure victims get the emotional or medical support that they may need following a sexual assault.

“Reporting sexual assault isn’t easy

We want victims to know that they will be treated with respect and that we will do everything we can to support them throughout the process.”

The videos can be accessed via the Police YouTube channel and the Sexual Assault section of the Police website.

As well as providing information and contacts to support agencies, the website has an online survey where victims are encouraged to provide feedback on their reporting experience.

Police are releasing the videos on Rape Awareness Week, 1-7 May and Mr Anderson says Police hope they will be a useful ongoing resource and reach those who can benefit most from the information they provide.

“There is always more work to be done and improvements to be made in how we do things.

These videos are another step in the right direction.”