Helping Someone After a Serious Crime

Practical support begins with listening

When someone tells you they have experienced a crime, a calm and respectful response can make a difference. You might begin by asking what would feel helpful right now, rather than assuming what they need. Some people may want practical help, such as sitting with them while they contact police or an insurer. Others may want privacy, time, or help finding information.

Avoid pushing someone to share details they do not want to discuss. Do not promise outcomes that you cannot control. Let the person set the pace where it is safe to do so.

Focus on immediate safety first

If there is immediate danger, someone is injured, or an incident is still happening, call 000. Where the situation is not immediate, you may be able to help the person identify one next step, such as finding an official reporting pathway, making a list of questions, or contacting a suitable support service.

It can be helpful to ask before taking action on someone else’s behalf. A person may not want you to contact a service, share information, change a device setting, or speak to another person without their agreement. Respecting that choice can be an important part of support.

Take care with digital safety

If the person is concerned about online abuse, device monitoring, or digital privacy, do not rush to change technology, passwords, account settings, or location sharing. Those actions may be noticed by another person and could create additional risk in some situations. Consider whether a safer device, a trusted specialist service, or 1800RESPECT’s technology-safety information would be a better starting point.

Referral to Shield & Rebuild

Shield & Rebuild does not accept self-referrals. Recognised charities, police and government bodies may refer eligible clients in Queensland using the Client Assistance Form. A referral is considered individually and does not guarantee that assistance, funding, services, or a specific outcome will be available.

If you are an authorised representative, provide only the information necessary for an initial assessment. Do not include unnecessary sensitive detail. If you are a friend or family member rather than an authorised referrer, you can use the public information on this website and help the person find appropriate local support.