NEW victim service dedicated to supporting those affected by crime has launched this week across the West Mercia Police force area.
The new Victim Advice Line (VAL) offers victims free and confidential support and a care package tailor-made for them.
People can get in touch in a number of ways:
1) The free and confidential phone line (0800 952 3000) is open 8am until 8pm Monday to Friday and 9am until 5pm on Saturdays. A new website (www.victimadviceline.org.uk) is now live.
2) An online chat function, available on the website, gives those not wanting to use the phone an opportunity to talk to someone online.
3) If someone doesn’t have time to chat on the phone or online, there is also an option to email or use the contact form on the website.
Recognising the needs of victims are different, VAL will work with victims and allow them to have greater ownership of their journey by allowing them to shape it themselves.
Those that need someone to talk to also don’t have to have reported the crime to the police.
The new service is part of West Mercia’s Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion’s commitment to ensuring victims of crime receive an improved and more consistent service.
It is also being seen as best practice and the support system has already been adopted by other PCCs and police forces.
PCC Campion said: “I am delighted to be officially launching the Victim Advice Line.
“This new service marks the beginning of big changes to the way victims are supported.
“By working with an individual and making sure they’re getting the level of support they need, and deserve, we’re sure to see those affected by crime moving on with their life with greater confidence.”