How we can help
We’re here to help anyone affected by crime. Not only those who experience it directly, but also their friends, family and any other people involved.
It doesn’t matter when the crime took place, or whether you’ve reported it to the police. You can get our help at any time, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
We’re independent from the police, and our support is free and confidential.
Help you feel safer and more secure
Feeling unsafe after crime is normal. We can help you to complete a safety plan, and give you advice and information to feel more secure. We’ll also work with other organisations for you if we think your immediate safety needs to be improved.
Help you to understand your rights and the services you’re entitled to
Experiencing crime can be overwhelming. You might not know where to turn to. We’ll make sure you’re aware of the rights and services you’re entitled to.
You may also find yourself overwhelmed with tasks related to your experience. We’ll give you the information you need to understand your options and next steps.
Help you to explore ways to cope
Our staff and volunteers are trained to listen, offer feedback and provide information. They can help make sense of what you’ve been through and explore your options to help you regain feelings of control. We provide a safe, neutral place for you to voice your fears, worries and emotions. This helps a lot of people to cope and move forward after a crime.
You may find that Victim Support’s help is enough. However additional support, such as counselling, is sometimes needed.
Counsellors are trained professionals who will work with you over a period of time. They will help you explore your thoughts, feelings, relationships and behaviours.
The suitability of different types of therapy and counsellors will depend on your needs. It’s important to find a therapist and a way of working you’re comfortable with so you can feel safe discussing personal and emotional issues.
Connect you with services and support networks
If you need specialist help that we don’t think we can provide ourselves, we can contact other agencies for you. We work closely with a wide range of charities and other organisations that have the expertise to help you with many of the problems caused by crime.