Gun crime
Young men are more at risk from gun crime
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Despite the impression given by the media, crime involving guns is actually quite rare in the UK. But what this doesn't take into account is the serious shock and distress that it can cause when it does happen. Even if a gun isn't actually used, but only there as a threat, it makes a crime very serious indeed.
Situations where a gun may be used include:
- gang attacks – which do affect the wider community and can harm innocent people in the case of mistaken identity
- violent theft where weapons, including guns, are used to threaten and intimidate
- people carrying an imitation or banned handgun which is still counted as a gun crime even if it can't be used
- intimidation of witnesses
Experiencing gun crime can be a very shocking experience for anyone. Whether or not anyone is actually hurt (which of course is extremely serious) the fact that someone has used a gun to force you to do something can cause a big reaction – both emotionally and physically. But equally, the experience can leave some people feeling numb – everyone will be different in how they respond.
It's quite natural in these situations to feel intense anger towards the perpetrator, but some people turn their anger inward and blame themselves for getting into a situation where such a crime could happen.
However you react, we think you'll find it helpful to talk in confidence to someone from Victim Support. We have volunteers who are specifically trained to help victims of serious crime and they will support friends and family too in the aftermath of crimes like this.
Gun crime: a special note for young men
Anyone can become a victim of gun crime. But more often than not the victims are young men.
Men can often find it harder to talk about their feelings than women and this is particularly true for younger men. And many men feel they have to live up to a 'tough guy' image and find it both shocking and difficult to deal with when they are traumatised by a serious crime such as this. They may not want partners, friends and family to know they are having problems. So the very people who are more at risk, statistically, from gun crime are the ones who may find it harder to get support.
Don't worry – you can get help from Victim Support in total confidence and we won't judge you in any way.
Get in touch: we can help
Most people are referred to us by the police when they report a crime. But anyone can contact us directly if they want to.
You can also email or call the Victim Supportline on 0845 30 30 900 for support and information.