Making a report
When reporting an incident it is important to provide as much detail as possible about what happened. We recognise that the process can be difficult, and sometimes distressing, but it is vital that you mention key pieces of information. Some of the facts that we will want to establish are as follows:
- Where and when did the incident(s) take place?
- What exactly happened?
- Who said/did what to whom?
- What are the relationships/roles of the parties
involved in the incident?
- How close were you to the incident and did you have an
unobstructed view?
- Did you witness the incident first-hand or was it reported to
you – if so, by whom?
- What are the names and/or descriptions of those involved
in the incident, including other possible witnesses?
- What happened after the incident and has it been reported
to anyone else e.g. the police/service authority?
- Is there anything else we should know - eg past history
between parties?
This list of questions is not exhaustive. However, it should provide a good guide to the type of information which is needed for the matter to be assessed properly.
Confidentiality
All investigations are confidential and any information relating to an investigation will not be released to the public unless or until charges are brought. Of course, anyone who contacts us can choose to remain anonymous (see below). However, should another agency (e.g. the police/service authority) be involved in investigating the same incident, we may seek to share information with that agency. For service personnel this information may be shared with the Service Complaints Commissioner.
Sharing information
We may share information with other organisations, although permission to do so will always be sought from you where necessary. Equally, we may put an investigation on hold pending the result of another agency’s inquiry – this is most likely when the police or Service Complaints Commissioner is involved in the matter.
Please ensure you review our ‘Frequently Asked Question’ (FAQ) section for answers to further questions that you many have about reporting discrimination.