A statement is an official record of what you tell the police about what happened. If you are under 16 years of age, police may record your statement on an audio tape, videotape or DVD. If you are an adult, police will usually type it out. You may also make a statement in your own handwriting.

It is important to tell the truth when you make your statement. Police will ask you questions while you are making your statement to make sure it includes all the details. Police will ask you to sign your statement.

You have the right to have a support person with you while you make your statement. If you need one, police will arrange for a properly qualified interpreter free of charge.

The accused person or their solicitor will get a copy of your statement if police decide there is enough evidence to charge the person who is accused of committing the crime.