GLOUCESTERSHIRE Constabulary has introduced a new set of online reporting tools to make it easier and less traumatic for victims of serious offences including stalking, harassment, rape, sexual assault and spiking to come forward.

The updated forms, launched last month, are now available on the constabulary’s website and are designed to collect all the key information officers need to begin an investigation, without requiring victims to recount their ordeal over the phone.

Until now, victims who wished to report online were directed to a generic form, which often failed to take the nature of the crime into account. The new tools feature questions tailored to each specific offence and aim to provide a more compassionate approach from the outset.

Detective Chief Superintendent Kerry Paterson, the force’s lead for tackling Violence Against Women and Girls, said: “These new online reporting tools are another step we're taking to provide the best possible service we can to victims and survivors of these horrific crimes.

“We understand how distressing it can be for people to call us and voice what happened to them. These new online reporting forms allow victims and survivors to write down what happened to them rather than reliving it over the phone, which we hope will make the process less traumatic”

The forms can also be filled in by third parties and there is an option to report anonymously. Victims can also find guidance on spotting the signs of stalking or harassment, what happens after a report is made, and where to access specialist support services.

The tools are part of a national initiative being adopted by police forces across the country.

For more information, visit the Gloucestershire Constabulary website and look for the dedicated reporting pages for rape and sexual assault, stalking and harassment, or spiking.