Press releases and statements - Archived

The following press releases can be viewed via this page:

More young people and vulnerable witnesses seek support in court, says UK crime charity (29 November 2006)
Victim Support and the Witness Service win three Justice Awards (24 November 2006)
New Victim Support card asks young victims, "Are you OK?" (21 November 2006)
Victims' charities welcome recommendation to include under 16s in crime figures (17 November 2006)
Victim Support's new guidance on homophobic crime promotes charity's 'lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender-friendly' values (16 November 2006)
Gay hate crime victims urged to use third party reporting and ask for support, says charity (16 November 2006)
Statement in response to the Government consultation on criminal memoirs (13 November 2006)
Volunteers' commitment praised by HRH, The Princess Royal at UK victims' charity reception (9 November 2006)
Your career in the voluntary sector could start at Victim Support (27 September 2006)
Buy a card to help victims of crime (20 September 2006)
Hate crime under-reported, says new research (16 August 2006)
Crime victims' helpline relies on Reliance to raise funds for new 'phones and volunteer training (8 August 2006)
Government and Victim Support pilot improved services for victims of crime (3 August 2006)
Victims' charity supports call to 'design out crime' (20 July 2006)
UK victims' charity shares the secrets of attracting diverse volunteer workforce (29 June 2006)
Victims' charity seeks HR professionals for mutually supportive relationship (11 May 2006)
One in four burglary victims' homes targeted again (20 April 2006)
Old Royal Naval College at Greenwich stages royal gala performance of historic court martial (11 April 2006)
Skillsmark awarded to Victim Support (9 March 2006)
Charities join forces to put young crime victims 'on the map' (9 March 2006)
Hidden victims in the aftermath of homicide (22 February 2006)
Victims of hate crime needed for research project by UK crime charity (3 February 2006)
Victim Support welcomes review of 'confusing' crime statistics as new figures show rise in street violence (26 January 2006)
Historic London courts provide stage for landmark trials (20 January 2006)
Victimisation takes centre stage in school (20 January 2006)
Victims say stopping re-offending is more important than prison (16 January 2006)
Crime charity seeks 30 Londoners to give vital help to people affected by crime (16 January 2006)
Victim Support comments on the publication of the Green Paper Rebuilding lives: supporting victims of crime (7 December 2005)
Media statement on Amnesty International's poll on attitudes to rape (23 November 2005)
Victim Support announces successor to retiring Chief Executive (1 September 2005)
Impact of hate crime to be investigated (10 August 2005)
New report shows volunteers' work worth almost £27 million a year to Victim Support (3 August 2005)
Young victims and disability on agenda at UK crime charity's national conference (30 June 2005)
New leaflet from Victim Support spells out home truths about domestic violence (24 May 2005)
Victim Support appoints new chair of national Board of Trustees (16 May 2005)
Diary note: Victim Support national conference 2005 (5 May 2005)
Julian Opie gives contemporary edge to young victims leaflet (4 May 2005)
'Alarming' rise in classroom violence prompts free training offer from UK crime charity (29 April 2005)
"Give up one hour next week to help victims", urges UK crime charity (20 April 2005)
Male victims of rape and sexual assault offered new information by UK crime (31 March 2005)
Victims of rape and sexual assault offered new information by UK crime charity (31 March 2005)
Victims of rape and sexual assault offered new information by UK crime charity (31 March 2005)
Horsham shop 'start of something big', promises Victim Support (23 February 2005)
'Stay-in-bed-Britain' urged to get busy for sixty minutes by UK crime charity (23 February 2005)
UK crime charity celebrates key achievements for victims at thirtieth anniversary gathering(15 November 2004)
UK crime charity head receives doctorate for 'outstanding contribution' to helping victims (2 November 2004)
National crime charity opens its doors for Inside Justice Week (1 October 2004)
Send a card to support victims of crime (3 September 2004)
National crime charity launches appeal for helpline volunteers (31 August 2004)
UK crime charity provides new resources to 'reach out' to minority ethnic victims and witnesses (2 August 2004)
Scotland, Paddick and Tatchell debate key issues at crime charity's National Conference (25 June 2004)
Children and young people benefit from range of improved services, says Victim Support (17 May 2004)
Euro 2004 fans offered support in Portugal with help from UK crime charity (7 May 2004)
Victim Support and ASDA urge crime victims to seek support in supermarkets (7 May 2004)
Witness Service expands to support UK armed forces personnel at courts martial
(20 April 2004)
New domestic violence guidelines to drive service improvement, says Victim Support
(8 April 2004)
Millions of victims still coping with crime alone warns charity on its 30th anniversary (26 February 2004)
Victim Support's response to 'No witness, no justice' project (4 February 2004)
Victim Support's response to death of Harold Shipman (13 January 2003)
Victim Support's response to Audit Commission report Victims and witnesses: providing better support (2 December 2003)
Victim Support's response to Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Bill (2 December 2003)
Victim Support's response to the Queen's Speech (26 November 2003)
Criminal injuries compensation system re-victimises says Victim Support (25 November 2003)
MPs meet 'lifeblood' of Victim Support and hear real impact of crime on national MPs day (14 November 2003)
Just the card to help victims of crime (15 September 2003)
Victim Support relaunches website (4 August 2003)
Victim Support produces 'essential' guidelines for supporting children and young people affected by crime (23 July 2003)
Victim Support's response to publication of the Government's strategy for victims and witnesses (22 July 2003)
International conference receives royal visitor
(14 July 2003)
Emergency care for victims of crime and services 'down under' on agenda at Victim Support National Conference (23 June 2003)
Victim Support statement on Safety and justice: the government's proposals on domestic violence (23 June 2003)
Victim Support's response to report of the Public Accounts Committee (8 May 2003)
New survey reveals extent of crime against 12 to 16 year-olds (19 February 2003)
Victim Support publishes report on coping with Shipman case (22 November 2002)
Victim Support's response to National Audit Office report (October 2002)
New rights for holiday victims of crime (June 2002).

More young people and vulnerable witnesses seek support in court, says UK crime charity

Increasing numbers of young people and witnesses at risk of intimidation are receiving help and support to help them cope with giving evidence during criminal trials, according to new figures from Victim Support released today.

Nearly 5,000 more vulnerable and intimidated witnesses (including children and victims of domestic violence) were helped in the last 12 months by the charity's Witness Service, bringing the total to nearly 52,000. Over 28,000 young people under 18 were helped by the court-based service, which is an increase of nearly 4,000 on last year.

The new figures from Victim Support's Annual report and accounts 2006 [pdf] show that more witnesses and victims are being offered pre-trial visits, which allow people to see a courtroom before the trial and ask specific questions about court procedures. Last year, staff and volunteers at the Witness Service arranged more than 12,000 extra visits to help people feel better informed about what happens during a trial.

Joe Brazil, Services Manager at Victim Support, says: "Many people get their ideas about appearing in court by watching programmes, such as The Bill, which rarely give you a sense of how it feels to be a witness. The Witness Service gives emotional support, practical help and answers to their questions. We know that well-supported witnesses and victims feel more relaxed and give better evidence, so we're very pleased that more people are accessing this information and support.

"Vulnerable and intimidated witnesses often have specific needs to help them cope with the court process, such as screens that shield them from the defendant, or video link evidence, so they don't have to go into the courtroom. We can help witnesses through the process, using 'special measures', by identifying their needs in advance, or on the day, by working closely with the police, Crown prosecution Service and the witness care units. We'll continue to liaise with other agencies to make sure it happens".

Staff and trained volunteers at the Witness Service provide free and confidential information, practical help and emotional support to witnesses, victims, their families and friends at every criminal court in England and Wales.

Victim Support and the Witness Service win three Justice Awards

Victim Support and the Witness Service have today (Friday 24 November 2006) picked up three awards at the 2006 Justice Awards ceremony in London, hosted by broadcaster and journalist, Fiona Bruce. The awards were presented to two individual volunteers and a Young Witness Service team.

Owen Lawrence, a Victim Support volunteer on the Leicestershire and Rutland Local Criminal Justice Board, won the award for outstanding achievement in caring for victims (individual). Jan Howell, a volunteer in the Young Witness Service in Greater Manchester won the award for outstanding achievement in caring for witnesses (individual). The Young Witness Service, run by Victim Support Nottinghamshire, won the award for outstanding achievement in caring for witnesses (team).

Gillian Guy, Chief Executive of Victim Support, said: "Our volunteers are the lifeblood of the charity, and I'm really proud to see two outstanding volunteers getting the recognition that they deserve today. Young victims and witnesses can be frightened by the prospect of going to court, and our volunteers in the Witness Service do a sterling job in supporting them through this. At a time when we are supporting more young people than ever, the award for Victim Support Nottinghamshire is a testament to this work".

Fiona Bruce said: "I am delighted to have been invited to host the Justice Awards again this year. Last year, I found it so rewarding to meet the finalists and winners - people who were actually making a real difference in people's lives. A lot of what they do is so thankless. That is what makes the achievements of the winners even more impressive. It's great to be involved in giving them their moment in the sun. I certainly don't have it in me, so meeting them is an inspiration".

The winners were chosen from over 650 nominations and were presented with their awards by Baroness Scotland, Home Office Minister for Criminal Justice and Offender Management.

Baroness Scotland said: "I have been moved and impressed by the dedication that staff and volunteers nominated for these awards have shown towards people who come into contact with the criminal justice system. The awards show that agencies and individuals across the country have gone that extra mile to protect communities from crime, deal compassionately with victims and witnesses, and address offenders' behaviour to try and prevent re-offending. These awards prove not only that people within the criminal justice system are working hard and achieving measurable results, but all parts of our community have a role to play in our alliance to create a fair and effective system we all want to see".

New Victim Support card asks young victims, "Are you OK?"

If you've been threatened, attacked, bullied or had something stolen, you might feel angry, frightened, upset or guilty. If you feel that you can't talk to your parents or a teacher, Victim Support can help. Today, the charity Victim Support launched a new campaign to raise awareness of the impact of crime and victimisation on children and young people.

Crime takes many forms, and everyone reacts differently. You might feel sick, stressed out, find it hard to eat or sleep, be worried about going out or find it difficult to concentrate at school. You might want to pretend that it didn't happen. If you've been a victim of crime - whether inside or outside the school gates - you're not alone. Research¹ indicates that around half of all 11-16 year olds in England and Wales will have been a victim of crime or bullying in the past year. Only 13% reported the incident to the police and only 54% told their parents.

A new, wallet-sized card features the 'phone number for the Victim Supportline - 0845 30 30 900 - where trained volunteers can talk to you about your experience of being a victim or witness of a crime, even if you don't want to report the crime to the police.

David, 16, from Norfolk, was helped by Victim Support after being the victim of an assault, and was involved in the design of the cards. He said: "When you're a victim of crime, you can feel uneasy about talking to someone close to you, even your best friend, because you might be scared of how they'll react - or you might be too embarrassed by what happened. When I was assaulted, my Victim Support volunteer was friendly and helpful, and offered me support at a very difficult time".

Harriet Becher, Young Victims Project Manager at Victim Support, said: "Feeling angry, upset or scared is a normal reaction to being a victim of crime or bullying, and talking about how you feel to people you're close to can make you feel better. Whatever you're feeling, being a victim of crime is not your fault. You have the right to have the support and help you need to feel better about what has happened to you. Sometimes talking about your feelings to someone you know can be really difficult, so it can help to talk to one of our volunteers who can support you confidentially, either at home, in our office or on the phone. We can listen to you, talk through what has happened and help you decide what to do next".

The card, and the matching poster, has been designed with input from children and young people. The cards will be available at schools, cinemas, as well as places like libraries and Connexions centres. Young people will be helping Victim Support to develop the new website - www.are-you-ok.org.uk - that will give information and support for young people affected by crime.

The campaign begins during Inside Justice Week (18 - 24 November) and Anti-Bullying Week (20 - 24 November).

1. MORI youth survey 2004. This survey asked almost 5000 pupils in school, and almost 700 pupils excluded from school, about their experience of crime in the past year. The survey also found that, overall, 49% of pupils in mainstream school had been victims of an offence in the previous 12 months. These were the most common five crimes:
1. being threatened (26%)
2. being bullied (23%)
3. having something other than a mobile phone stolen from them (15%)
4. having something which belongs to them destroyed or damaged on purpose (14%)
5. being physically attacked (13%).

For more details about the survey see: www.yjb.gov.uk/Publications/Scripts/prodView.asp?idproduct=187&eP=YJB

Victims' charities welcome recommendation to include under 16s in crime figures

Victim Support and Young Voice today welcome new proposals set out by the Review Group to include information from young people about crimes committed against under 16s in the British Crime Survey (BCS).

The national charity says that there is an urgent need to address the current shortage of consistent and comprehensive data about how crime affects young people, which prevents effective steps being taken to reduce it, and to offer support to young victims. Victim Support says that it is essential that the BCS provides this data. In March this year, Victim Support and Young Voice called for a better and more co-ordinated approach to collecting data on crimes against young people.

Dr Harriet Becher, Young Victims Project Manager at Victim Support, says: "The extent of crime against young people has been obscured by poor collection of data for too long. If the problem remains largely invisible, how can you hope to manage it, or be surprised when young victims become angry after being let down by society? Not only do they suffer the immediate consequences of crime, but efforts to help them to cope and recover from their experiences are made more difficult. There is also evidence that suggests that, when we fail to support young victims, we may increase the risk of some turning to crime. By collecting young peoples' opinions on crime and, crucially, their actual experiences, the BCS will present a more accurate and representative picture of crime in England and Wales".

Adrienne Katz, Chief Executive of Young Voice said: "This is an unprecedented opportunity as services for children are reorganised. If no changes are made, we could see fragmented data collection for years to come and more young people losing faith in the authorities. Now is a perfect time for national and local government, police, charities and those involved in the care and education of young people to come together and design a system that measures the impact of crime on the young. This could prevent future generations from being left to cope with crime alone".

Victim Support's new guidance on homophobic crime promotes charity's 'lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender-friendly' values

Victim Support has produced new guidance to strengthen its services for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) victims of crime, and to raise awareness of the widespread under-reporting of homophobic and transphobic hate crime.

The guidance will help staff and volunteers to identify victims' needs, following research¹ that showed that many LGBT victims are reluctant to seek help. Victims are often worried that if they go to the police, they might get an unhelpful or insensitive response. Similarly, some people may not feel confident that support organisations will understand - or be able to meet - their needs.

The guidance recommends that local Victim Support branches engage actively with LGBT communities about their services; recruit more LGBT volunteers; and take part in LGBT and hate crime forums to help promote themselves as 'LGBT-friendly' organisations.

Particular emphasis is given to the widespread under-reporting of homophobic and transphobic crime, and the need to promote the use of third party reporting centres², such as Victim Support offices, Citizens Advice Bureaux and race equality councils. Other sections of the guidance include examples of homophobic and transphobic crime (such as verbal abuse, physical assault, arson, blackmail and murder); the impact of this type of crime on victims; and supporting victims.

According to research³ conducted by Stonewall, for which more than 4,000 lesbians, gay men and bisexuals were questioned, 73% said that they had experienced verbal abuse because of their sexuality. A 1998 survey by Galop⁴ revealed that nearly one in two LGBT respondents under 18 had suffered violent crime.

Peter Dunn, Head of Research & Development at Victim Support, says: "The guidance has enabled us to look at some of the issues facing victims of homophobic and transphobic crime, and to demonstrate Victim Support's gay-friendly credentials. By providing more information to our staff and volunteers, and by forging strong links with LBGT communities, we're able to offer effective help and support to victims".

1. Brown, P. Lesbian, gay and bisexual community safety survey. Huddersfield: Victim Support Kirklees, 2001.
2. 'Third party reporting' describes a situation where victims of crime - typically, but not always 'hate crime' - can tell the authorities that a crime has taken place, without having to deal directly with the police. This is important because some people may feel uncomfortable talking to the police, but they may want the crime to be investigated, or need a crime reference number.
3. Queer bashing. London: Stonewall, 1996. (Stonewall is a national organisation, working to achieve equality and justice for LGB people - www.stonewall.org.uk.)
4. Telling it like it is. London: Galop, 1998. (Galop is a London-based hate crime charity - www.galop.org.uk.)

Gay hate crime victims urged to use third party reporting and ask for support, says charity

Victims of homophobic crime are being encouraged to get emotional support and practical help from Victim Support, and to use 'third party reporting' facilities.

New information from the national charity offers advice to its staff and volunteers on supporting lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) victims, and highlights the widespread under-reporting of homophobic and transphobic hate crime. It also explains how victims can use 'third party reporting' facilities¹, such as Victim Support offices, race equality councils and Citizens Advice Bureaux, to pass on information about incidents without reporting them to the police.

The guidance also looks at the impact of hate crime, victims' needs and the importance of recruiting more LGBT volunteers, as well as why concerns about being 'outed', lack of confidence in the police, and fear of reprisals discourage many victims from reporting incidents. Victims are often worried that, if they go to the police, they might get an unhelpful or insensitive response, while others may not feel confident that support organisations will understand - or be able to meet - their needs.

Peter Dunn, Head of Research & Development at Victim Support, says: "We live in a more tolerant society but unfortunately, crime and prejudice still affect peoples' lives. We can, and do, support people who've been threatened and assaulted because of their sexuality or transgender status, but we want to reach out to more of them. By getting out into LGBT communities and talking to people, including those who've been affected by crime, to find out more about their needs, we can promote our services and help people get on with their lives".

1. 'Third party reporting' describes a situation where victims of crime - typically, but not always 'hate crime' - can tell the authorities that a crime has taken place, without having to deal directly with the police. This is important, because some people may feel uncomfortable talking to the police, but they may want the crime to be investigated, or need a crime reference number.

Statement in response to the Government consultation on criminal memoirs

(The statement below is in response to the Making sure that crime doesn't pay consultation paper. The review [pdf] that informed the consultation paper and the press release are also available.)

Gillian Guy, Chief Executive of Victim Support said: "Victims and their families will have been through the devastating experience of the crime, and relived it during the criminal justice process, only to be further re-victimised by seeing their experiences set down in print. We believe that it's wrong for criminals to capitalise on their crimes, so we welcome this consultation on criminal memoirs. We look forward to gathering views from across the organisation to contribute to our response to the Government's work in this complex area".

Volunteers' commitment praised by HRH, The Princess Royal at UK victims' charity reception

The President of Victim Support, HRH, The Princess Royal, will attend an evening reception today (Thursday 9 November) to celebrate the vital contribution made by the national charity's volunteers in supporting victims and witnesses.

The event will be attended by Victim Support's Chief Executive, Gillian Guy, and more than 200 staff and volunteers from its community-based services, the court-based Witness Services and the Victim Supportline. The reception is being held at The Commonwealth Club in London, following the charity's Annual General Meeting.

More than 9,000 staff and trained volunteers at local branches and the Witness Service provided emotional support, practical help and information to around 1.7 million people affected by crime across England and Wales last year. These included victims of burglary, assault, domestic violence and families bereaved by murder and manslaughter. Volunteers at the Victim Supportline took just under 12,000 calls from people seeking support and information.

Speaking before the event, Gillian Guy said: "I'm delighted that our President, HRH, The Princess Royal, will be joining us at this evening's reception to pay tribute to the sterling work of our volunteers. It has been said that our volunteers are the lifeblood of the organisation, which is a view that I share. Their dedication and commitment is an inspiration, not just to our staff, but also to the victims and witnesses who receive their support".

Your career in the voluntary sector could start at Victim Support

Rewarding. Unique. Challenging. Three words that describe the work of Victim Support, which helps people cope with the effects of crime and makes a difference to their lives. Could Victim Support help you change your life, too? If you are considering a career in the voluntary sector, find out more about work experience, volunteering and paid work at Victim Support at forum3 on 13 - 14 October. The national charity's trained and dedicated volunteers alone make up just over 80% of its workforce.

forum3 is a leading recruitment and volunteering event for the not-for-profit sector, attracting more than 15,000 visitors every year who are interested in areas including social work, youth work, fundraising, marketing and IT. Visitors to the event at the Business Design Centre in Islington can also get free CV checks and attend seminars to help them find their dream job. Entry is free and Victim Support has 300 tickets to give away - please contact John Taylor on 020 7896 3749.

Victim Support's staff and volunteers offer emotional support and practical help to victims in local communities, while the Witness Service helps witnesses, including children and young people, when they give evidence in court. For some people, a call to the Victim Supportline is their first chance to ask for help, or to talk to someone about how the crime has affected them. At Victim Support, everyone's experience - and every working day - is different.

During her time as a volunteer, Anna supported victims of sexual violence, before becoming the manager of a Witness Service in the local court. She now works at Victim Support London, where she advises criminal justice agencies on victims' issues. She says: "As a Victim Support volunteer, I was able to help people regain their self-esteem and confidence, which was very fulfilling. I now work for the organisation and have undergone training in victim care and have learnt a lot about the criminal justice system. I learn new things every day and it feels like I'm making a difference".

Victim Support will be at stand F21 at forum3, where you can talk to staff from its community-based branches, the Witness Service and Victim Supportline.

For more information, please contact:

Andrew Buckingham, Media & PR Officer, Victim Support, 020 7896 3750

Lucy Winter, Media & PR Manager, Victim Support, 020 7896 3726.

Buy a card to help victims of crime

When you send Victim Support's charity Christmas cards to your family and friends, you're doing more than sending festive greetings - you're also showing your support for victims of crime.

This year's range of cards includes traditional and modern designs to suit everyone's taste, including the classic Frosted holly and the traditional Journey of the Magi. Children will love sending the colourful Spotty baubles to their friends, while grown-ups will appreciate The Christmas rush, which shows crowds shopping for last-minute bargains.

Terry Waite CBE, from Victim Support's Advisory Board, says: "Nobody wants to think about crime at Christmas, but it does happen and we know that burglaries increase during the festive season, which turn people's lives upside down. By buying Victim Support's cards, you're supporting the charity's work to help people cope with their experiences and get on with their lives, whatever crime they've suffered."

Hugh, who lives in west London and has been burgled twice, says: "When you're burgled, you wonder if you'll ever recover from it. I was very grateful to my Victim Support volunteer, who cut through the red tape and helped me sort out my home security. Without her, I would have been completely at a loss to know what to do."

Buying your cards is quick and easy - you can order by phone, fax, post or purchase online from Victim Support's website www.victimsupport.org where you can also view the collection and select your favourite cards.

Prices for a pack of eight or ten Christmas cards range from £2.50 to £3.80 - and wrapping paper is available for £3.75 for five sheets with matching gift tags. To place your order, go to www.victimsupport.org.uk or request a free brochure. To get more information about customised cards for personal use and businesses, please call Victim Support on 020 7896 3718.

Hate crime under-reported, says new research

Victim Support exposes the impact of hate crime on its victims, and how these very damaging crimes are often not reported to the police, in a new report published today (16 August). The report, Crime and prejudice, focuses on the experience and support needs of people who suffered attacks because of their ethnic origin or sexual orientation^[i], and is part of a £100,000 research programme, funded by Co-operative Insurance (CIS). It brings together evidence from in-depth interviews with 107 hate crime victims, a survey of and workshops with service providers, as well as a review of existing research.

The experience of hate crime can be life-changing. Being targeted for who you are sets hate crime and its effects apart from most other types of crime. Hate crime can have a deep impact on the victim's culture, identity and self-esteem. Victim Support helps around 30,000 people affected by racist crime alone each year, and numbers are rising.

The research found that hate crime victims suffered major damage to the quality of their life, including the loss of their home or business due to arson or vandalism, and deterioration of emotional well-being. Some even abandoned life outside the home: "I thought, if I was going to get harassed when I go out, then I'd rather stay inside. It got to the point where I stopped working and I started claiming benefits^[ii]."

Worryingly, some victims said that they see abuse as part of daily life: "We are learning to cope with the abuse during weekends and holidays because this is the time when there is more abuse. There is really nothing I can do about it". Just over half of those interviewed suffered from ongoing victimisation. Many described living with the fear of repeat attacks: "It is just horrible ... I keep my mobile phone in my hand all the time, not in my pocket, so that I can call the police because I know they will attack me again".

Victims gave a number of reasons for not reporting the crime to the police. "... let's be perfectly blunt about it, there would be retaliation and I would get no support". Fear of going to court, concern about revenge attacks, and a lack of understanding from the police were significant factors in under-reporting.

Although awareness of hate crime is increasing, the research found evidence of police taking a 'there is nothing we can do' approach towards so-called low-level harassment, which over time has serious effects: "What affected me more was the attitude of the police officer, who took it so lightly".

Of those who did report the crime, only one in five felt that they were well supported by the police. However, where victims were dealt with by specialist police officers, they were seen as the most helpful source of support.

Victims surveyed wanted the police to be more communicative and more sympathetic, and to take hate crime seriously. "At least a number should be provided to contact the police, or a helpline ... I was going through five phone numbers, digging somewhere on the internet to find the Leeds Metropolitan Police contact number".

A common complaint was the lack of action on the part of the police, either to help solve problems or to pursue the perpetrator. Police were also criticised for poor communication - especially not informing on the progress of a case. Respondents often didn't know about third-party reporting^[iii], which could contribute to the under-reporting of hate crimes.

When victims were asked what more could have been done for them, many called for greater awareness-raising, among young people in particular, as well as an increase in measures to tackle the causes of hate crime.

Key recommendations from the research are:

greater investment in promotion of services to at-risk communities
the police and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) need to understand and respond to the needs of victims, and record hate crime more accurately
services for victims of hate crime need to be more joined up
support services need more funding for specialist staff
the root causes of hate crime need to be tackled.

The report also suggests ways for Victim Support to improve its own service to victims of hate crime. These include increasing visibility and outreach, a 24 hour Supportline, improving referrals and a more personal service.

Peter Dunn, Head of Research & Development at Victim Support said: "Hate crime symbolises all the worst aspects of prejudice. Our research shows that it has a more profoundly damaging effect on victims that is often not fully understood by the criminal justice system.

Hate crime damages whole communities, not just the individuals who are targeted. It makes people afraid that they might be the next victim and creates a climate of fear. We will be sharing the findings of this research with the police, CPS and other community groups to work together more effectively and improve our support for victims of hate crime. Through this research Victim Support has learned that we need to make our services more visible and accessible to the communities most at risk, but we need more funding to do this. The next step is to develop new guidance and training materials for our local branches and we are very grateful to CIS for funding this programme of work."

Chris Smith, Head of Community and Co-operative Affairs at the Co-operative Group said: "As an insurance company, CIS deals daily with victims of many types of crime. Supporting Victim Support with this research was important as we wanted to understand the breadth of hate crime, the issues facing service providers and, finally, to help make a difference for the victims. The Co-operative Group's values include social responsibility and caring for others. Our association with Victim Support is just one way that we are putting our values into practice for the benefit of minority groups in society."

For more information, please contact:
Andrew Buckingham, telephone 020 7896 3750, andrew.buckingham@victimsupport.org.uk
Lucy Winter, 020 7896 3726, lucy.winter@victimsupport.org.uk
Paul Fawcett, 020 7896 3803, mobile 07764 161147, paul.fawcett@victimsupport.org.uk

Co-operative Financial Services: Andy Hammerton, 0161 829 5489, andy.hammerton@cfs.co.uk

[i] The research focused on victims from black and minority ethnic (BME) communities and lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people but also considered the wider impact across other communities.
[ii] Anonymous quotes from victims are taken directly from the report.
[iii] Third-party reporting will enable victims, witnesses or any other concerned persons to report hate crime incidents to an agency not directly linked to the police. This will encourage more people, who may not have otherwise come forward, to report these types of incidents.

Crime victims' helpline relies on Reliance to raise funds for new 'phones and volunteer training

A company that delivers a wide range of contracts on behalf of government agencies and police authorities, across the UK, has pledged to raise much-needed funds for Victim Support's national telephone helpline. Staff at Reliance Secure Task Management have chosen Victim Support as its nominated charity and are aiming to raise a total of £25,000 for the Victim Supportline by April 2007.

Last year, the helpline took around 12,000 calls, but three times that number went unanswered. The Supportline urgently needs extra funds to increase the number of 'phone lines, and more staff and volunteers to meet the need of the victims who cannot currently get through. Victims of crime, witnesses and their families and friends can call the Victim Supportline, in strict confidence, for information, emotional support and referral to their local branch of Victim Support to help them cope with what has happened to them.

Five Reliance area managers will be motivating their staff to raise the most money through fundraising events, such as a Motown music night, sponsoring local police officers to be locked in a cell for the night and auctioning an EastEnders photograph, signed by the whole cast.

Graham Lewis, Victim Supportline manager, said: "We're delighted that Reliance staff around the country are so keen to raise money for us. Ideally, we'd use the money to pay for an urgent upgrade of our telephone system, as well as recruiting and training more volunteers. With more volunteers here to take calls, we can make sure that more people can get the support they need".

Simon Marshall, Director of Operations at Reliance Secure Task Management said: "We're proud that our staff recognise the vital services that Victim Support provides for victims and witnesses. Both staff and managers have taken up the challenge to compete with each other to raise the most money for the Victim Supportline. We hope that, through their motivation and teamwork, they'll exceed the £25,000 target".

Government and Victim Support pilot improved services for victims of crime

Victims of crime are set to benefit from a boost in help and support after Home Office Minister Gerry Sutcliffe announced a £1 million package to pilot new and enhanced victims services today.

The national charity Victim Support will run the pilots from its local branches in three areas - North Yorkshire, City of Nottingham and Salford in Greater Manchester.

The £1 million in new funding comes after the Government outlined plans for piloting enhanced victims services in its Green Paper, Rebuilding lives: supporting victims of crime, published in December. The pilots will provide improved, immediate and practical support tailored to victims' needs.

Gerry Sutcliffe said:

"I am delighted to announce the pilot sites today. We have consulted widely and worked closely with Victim Support to develop this initiative. I have seen at first hand how dedicated the staff and volunteers at Victim Support are and I am confident that together we will improve the support for victims of crime.

This Government has done more than any other to ensure victims' interests and needs are put at the heart of the criminal justice system. These pilots form part of our continuing work to rebalance the system in favour of victims and the law abiding majority. What remains clear, however, is that there is still more to do to encourage real public confidence in the work of the police, courts and prosecutors and I believe that these pilots will help us to achieve more in these areas."

Gillian Guy, Chief Executive of Victim Support, said:

"The pilot is a new project for us, and represents a commitment by the Government to improving support for victims and confidence in Victim Support to deliver this.

We believe that more can be done to enhance the services available for victims of crime, and are looking forward to working in close collaboration with the Government to build on this exciting initiative."

The pilots will ensure that the majority of victims are initially contacted by telephone, followed by an assessment of their needs. Victims will then be offered a 'menu' of services based on their needs, including practical help (for example the fitting of new locks or childcare), emotional support or counselling, installation of security devices and/or assistance with medical costs. Staff and volunteers will establish and oversee contact with relevant agencies on the victim's behalf.

As well as providing these new services to victims, the pilots will collect data to measure the demand and benefits of the new services, along with the longer term cost implications. They will provide an out-of-hours hotline for victims to complement the expansion of the existing Victim Supportline.

Victims' charity supports call to 'design out crime'

Gillian Guy, Chief Executive of Victim Support, spoke out about the impact of burglary on the victims, at the parliamentary launch of an Association of British Insurers' (ABI) report about building security standards yesterday.

The report, Securing the nation: the case for safer homes, outlines the ABI's call to the Government to 'design out crime' by introducing minimum security requirements in the building regulations for all new and refurbished homes. The ABI, supported by Andrew Stunell MP, called for new and refurbished properties to be 'crime-proof' to minimise the probability of homes being burgled.

Gillian Guy said: "Burglary can leave financial and emotional scars that may take years to heal. Sometimes the feeling that your home has been invaded never goes away. Yet so much of this distress could be reduced if good security was built into new and refurbished homes."

For more information on the report visit the ABI website.

UK victims' charity shares the secrets of attracting diverse volunteer workforce

Attracting volunteers from diverse communities in the UK is the key theme of Victim Support's national conference at the University of Warwick (4 - 6 July), which will bring together victims' and voluntary organisations from Holland, Belgium and the UK.

The national charity for people affected by crime has invited a wide range of guest speakers to its annual conference to share best practice across the voluntary sector and discuss the benefits of volunteering. They include representatives from Volunteering England, British Red Cross, Slachtofferhulp Nederland, Steunpunt Algemeen Welzijinswerk Belgium, CIVIQ, CEV European Volunteer Centre and Do-it.org.

Currently, more than 9,500 trained volunteers across Victim Support give information, emotional support and practical help to victims and witnesses at community-based services, criminal courts and on the charity's Supportline. Last year, a report commissioned by the organisation found that the monetary value of its volunteers' time is a staggering £27 million a year.

During the three-day conference in Coventry, Victim Support's members and staff will attend and run workshops and seminars and share information about the latest developments in providing help for victims. A series of workshops will be held at the conference as part of a European Commission AGIS project, Action Research for Volunteers for Victims of Crime (ARVVOC). The initiative, which is run by Victim Support in partnership with Slachtofferhulp Nederland and Steunpunt Algemeen Welzijinswerk Belgium, aims to develop and test ways to recruit and retain a diverse volunteer workforce. Contributions made during the workshops will be fed into the final report of the ARVVOC project, which will be published in August this year.

Stephen Hanvey, Head of Members' Services at Victim Support, says: "Our national conference is an important part of our calendar where we exchange ideas, learn new skills and discuss the challenges that face the organisation. Our dedicated volunteers are essential to our work and I am pleased that we are focusing on how we can increase the diversity of our volunteers".

Members of the press are asked to contact the media team for more information on attending plenary sessions.

Paul Fawcett, 020 7896 3803, mobile 07764 161147, paul.fawcett@victimsupport.org.uk

Lucy Winter, 020 7896 3726, mobile 07725 429170, lucy.winter@victimsupport.org.uk

Andrew Buckingham, 020 7896 3750, mobile 07736 211148, andrew.buckingham@victimsupport.org.uk

Victims' charity seeks HR professionals for mutually supportive relationship

Victim Support is calling for 43 HR professionals to step forward and volunteer for its innovative national employment panel. The panel is designed to sharpen up HR practices in the local Victim Support branches and find creative solutions to employment-related issues.

As the national charity for victims of crime, Victim Support runs support services in every community and criminal court in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. At this local level, managers have to be a jack of all trades, often juggling the task of human resources alongside other jobs like facilities management, IT infrastructure and local criminal justice board liaison, to make sure that services to victims and witnesses meet their needs. As with many service-led charities, budgets are tight and only 10 out of 90 local Victim Support branches can afford the luxury of paid HR staff, which can leave the majority of managers open to the threat of employment tribunals if they are not up-to-date on employment law and people management practices.

HR practitioners on the panel will donate their time and expertise to help local Victim Support managers with challenges such as recruitment, grievances and redundancies. The panel currently has seven HR volunteers, but Victim Support's national Head of HR, Roland Stainton-Williamson, says: "We are calling for a further 43 HR experts to provide independent, professional support in relation to specific cases and projects. My aim is to make sure that all Victim Support branches are as robust as they can be, leaving the manager with more time to focus on improving support for victims and witnesses.

"The employment panel is a cost effective way to add value to the organisation and further our investment in people. And current panel members will testify that volunteering on the panel gives HR professionals opportunities to experience and understand the nuances of employment practice in the voluntary sector, while giving something back to the community."

If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Roland Stainton-Williamson directly on 020 7896 3715 or roland.stainton-williamson@victimsupport.org.uk. There is also information about becoming an employment panel member on Victim Support's website.

Notes to editors

Interviews with Roland Stainton-Williamson, a current panel member or local Victim Support managers who have worked with an HR volunteer are available.

For further information contact: Lucy Winter, Media & PR Manager, 020 7896 3726 lucy.winter@victimsupport.org.uk.

One in four burglary victims' homes targeted again

Burglary may be on the decline, but new research released today by Victim Support and Direct Line warns that we cannot be complacent about the impact that this type of crime can have on victims.

Disturbingly, the research found that one in four (25%) victims had been burgled more than once in their current home. Burglary can have serious effects on victims in practical, financial or emotional ways, and this kind of re-victimisation is of great concern. The research also highlights that just under two-thirds (61%) of victims surveyed were at home when they were burgled. Forty-seven per cent were at home, but unaware that they were being burgled; ten per cent of victims saw the intruder in their home, and a further four per cent were at home and aware of the burglary, but did not see the intruder. The research was designed to help Victim Support improve the scope, effectiveness and quality of the services it provides for burglary victims. The research surveyed burglary victims who had been referred to Victim Support by the police.

The most common types of support that respondents wanted immediately after they were burgled were practical, including information from the police about the progress of the case (39%), advice on how to improve security (28%) and help in reporting the incident (26%). Although only 22% of victims said that they wanted someone to talk to about the crime directly after it happened, 60% said that overall they felt emotionally affected 'very much' or 'quite a lot', demonstrating that the emotional effects of burglary are often not realised until some time after the crime occurred.

Servjeet, who lives in Bradford, was at home when she was burgled: "When I opened the door to the dining room, the burglar was standing in front of me. I screamed and my husband came downstairs quickly, because he thought I was being attacked. The burglar ran out and got into our car and drove off with someone. For six months, I was afraid to go downstairs at night. I still haven't got over the burglary. Every night before I go to bed, I put the chain across on the door and check the alarm. Victim Support was very good to us, because they helped us whenever I asked them".

Peter Dunn, Head of Research & Development at Victim Support, says: "This research tells us that the effects of burglary on victims can be traumatic, wide-ranging and long-lasting. We can give victims emotional support, practical help and information to help them come to terms with the experience of being burgled. Our help for victims can only be effective if we have a clear sense of what is needed. Unfortunately, our personal contact level with burglary victims has fallen in recent years due to a lack of resources. We really appreciate Direct Line's commitment to funding the research, which gives us new insights to help us enhance the quality and range of services that we provide to burglary victims. People often forget that Victim Support is a charity, and we need more donations and more volunteers if we are to provide the kind of help that this research shows is so badly needed".

The research findings are also relevant to the insurance industry as well as other voluntary and statutory organisations that are concerned with helping victims of burglary and reducing repeat victimisation. The partnership with Direct Line, one of the UK's largest insurers, will also fund the development of a new toolkit of resources for local Victim Support groups working in the community to help burglary victims.

Simon Ziviani at Direct Line said: "The research also highlights the financial impact that burglary can have on victims with inadequate or no insurance cover - as a responsible insurer, we want homeowners to understand the need for sufficient levels of cover. After a home burglary, victims can suffer in many ways. Financial hardship is one of the few consequences of a burglary that can be controlled by being adequately insured, which is why we are so pleased to have the chance to do this piece of important research with Victim Support. By working with Victim Support we can better understand our customers' needs and enhance the quality of our service to them while Victim Support helps to restore their confidence".

Old Royal Naval College at Greenwich stages royal gala performance of historic court martial

The Old Royal Naval College at Greenwich will set the stage for a performance piece about the court martial and execution of a leading eighteenth century naval commander. The first public performance of The court martial of Admiral Byng will be held in the chapel at the College on Wednesday 17 May 2006. The event will raise much-needed funds for the London Crown Court Witness Service (run by Victim Support), which provides support for people attending court. Nigel Pascoe QC will lead the six-strong cast to perform his recital in the presence of HRH, The Princess Royal, President of Victim Support, and Rear Admiral Timothy Laurence.

Admiral John Byng was court-martialled and executed for losing Minorca to the French in 1756. Ordered to relieve the island, then under British rule, he was handicapped by poorly equipped ships and accused of failing to effectively engage with the French fleet. He was arrested, held at the Old Royal Naval College, before being transferred to Portsmouth for the court martial. He was found guilty of the charge, "That in the battle, Byng had not done his utmost to defeat the French fleet", and was sentenced to death. He was executed by firing squad on 14 March 1757.

Nigel Pascoe QC says: "I'm delighted that we've been given the opportunity to perform the piece in Sir Christopher Wren's beautiful chapel and I hope the audience will enjoy this insight into naval and legal history. Essentially, it's about the court martial's mandatory sentence and Byng's single error of judgment, for which he paid dearly, but died courageously. I'm very pleased that the Witness Service will benefit from the evening, because its staff and volunteers do superb work to support people giving evidence in court, not just in London, but across the country".

The performance of The court martial of Admiral Byng will be held in the chapel from 8 pm - 9.30 pm. Tickets for the black tie event, which is supported by The Waterhouse Group, cost £25 and are available on 0870 906 3732 or you can buy the tickets online.

A limited number of tickets (100) are available at £75 (which includes admission to the reading) for a private champagne reception from 6 pm - 7.30 pm with HRH, The Princess Royal.

Skillsmark awarded to Victim Support

Today (Thursday 9 March 2006) Victim Support will receive the Skillsmark Award - the new quality mark for learning and development in the justice sector - at a ceremony in Riverbank Plaza, London. The Learning & Development Department at the National Office of Victim Support is one of only a small number of organisations nationwide to have achieved recognition under the Skillsmark Programme and to have learning programmes endorsed. The award will be collected by Fiona Richmond, Head of Learning & Development at Victim Support's National Office and Sarah Philips OBE DL, Chair of the national Board of Trustees.

Fiona Richmond, Head of Learning & Development at Victim Support's National Office said: "I am delighted that Victim Support has gained the Skillsmark Award. The process was rigorous and confirmed that our systems and learning programmes are of a high quality. The prime purpose of gaining the award was to make sure that the learning programmes used with volunteers to prepare them to support victims and witnesses are second to none. Our learning programmes are also related to national occupational standards and relevant nationally recognised qualifications.

"Victim Support also develops and delivers learning programmes for other organisations in the justice sector relating to victim awareness and victim sensitive practice and Skillsmark will give professionals confidence in the training provided".

The ceremony is taking place during a Skills Summit attended by delegates from all parts of the justice sector, hosted by Skills for Justice in association with the Home Office.

Charities join forces to put young crime victims 'on the map'

The full impact of crime on young people is, at present, unknown. As a result, young people are put at greater risk, say the charities Young Voice and Victim Support who today (9 March 2006) launch a campaign to call for a better and more co-ordinated approach to collecting data on crimes against the young.

The partnership is being launched at a conference in London where speakers will include police and charity representatives. The speakers will explore new ways to:

collect robust data on young victims under 16
establish more standardised local data collection on young victims
change the National standards for recorded crime to give more information about victims, including their age.

Currently, the lack of consistent and comprehensive national data about how crime affects young people prevents effective steps being taken to reduce it, and to offer support to those affected. But several new Government initiatives present an ideal opportunity to make sweeping changes that together could help resolve the data collection problems once and for all. These include the setting up of a new cross-party review group to look at the collection and publication of all crime figures, and the forthcoming joint area reviews of how local authority services for children are meeting their child safety targets as set out in Every child matters [pdf].

"For too long the extent of crime against young people has been obscured by poor collection of data. How can we hope to manage a problem that remains largely invisible? Tragically, the end result is that young people are let down by society. Not only do they suffer the immediate consequences of crime, but the job of helping them to cope and recover is made harder too. And there is evidence to suggest that when we fail to support young victims we may increase the risk that some turn to committing crimes themselves", says Harriet Becher, Young Victims Project Manager at Victim Support.

Hidden victims in the aftermath of homicide

Victim Support reveals a rare insight into the experiences of people bereaved by murder and manslaughter in a new report published today, 22 February 2006. The report, In the aftermath - the support needs of people bereaved by homicide, reaches beyond the homicide headlines to expose the traumatic consequences of these crimes on the families and friends left behind. It brings together evidence from in-depth interviews with 41 bereaved people, and findings from focus groups with police, probation employees and Victim Support employees and volunteers. The report also includes a review of existing research.

The experience of bereavement by homicide can be devastating. The grief which follows homicide is unlike the grief that accompanies a death by natural causes. People experience intense and overwhelming emotions over a long period of time, which can affect the normal functioning of everyday life. Mothers and sons, sisters and fathers are among the voices in the report that describe a clear need for more active practical support, greater sensitivity to their feelings throughout the criminal proceedings and a need for information during the investigation, at trial and beyond.

"One minute K. had died and the next they're saying it's a murder inquiry and they'd be doing a post mortem and because you're in such shock, it's surreal. Not five minutes ago you'd been there as your child takes their last breath and then the next minute everything's taken out of your hands anyway. We still knew none of the facts surrounding her death so it was a huge shock." (Mother, 49)

"It's the time in your life when you are the most dependent. The mind needs to shut down for periods of time. What's missing, especially during the first year, is having someone there throughout the whole process, who actually stays with you, who is a resource point, an information point, a sounding board". (Brother, 31)

"You know how you see on TV what happens when someone identifies a body? It was nothing like that. They took me into a little room and he was there, in front of me, but I wasn't allowed to touch him". (Mother, 36)

Traumatic grief can be overwhelming. Combined with a focus on the details of the investigation, this can mean that day-to-day domestic matters, such as paying household bills and remembering to feed the pets, will often be overlooked. "When we drove back the next day, after they'd turned the life support off, I can remember seeing all the speed cameras we must have passed on the way there and I thought, "I wonder if we've got speeding tickets?"" (Father, 43)

If the homicide happened in the family home, the house will be in turmoil. It may even be sealed as a crime scene and the family not allowed in. Having someone to step in and organise the clearing up when the family returns or even to help answer the 'phone and screen calls can be extremely helpful.

The research found that different people experience bereavement by homicide in different ways, depending on their relationship to the victim. "He's a big tough guy - he was 19 when his brother died, they were really close but he can't show any emotion. He curled up in my car outside the hospital and stayed there for two days, like a baby". (Mother, 60)

Many people benefit from being encouraged to grieve, and to accept that this is natural. "She's [Victim Support volunteer] helped me identify practical ways to deal with my anger like taking up exercise, having time to myself each day, just to think. I can't change what's happened but she's really helped me rationalise it". (Sister, 27)

Traumatic grief can also be complicated by involvement in the criminal justice system, whose processes can inhibit and slow down grief reactions, and intensify feelings of powerlessness and anger. One victim's mother wanted ongoing contact with the police: "Even if they have nothing to tell me, I have questions". (Mother, 58)

The research was carried out to help Victim Support review its services for people bereaved by homicide. Key recommendations from the report include: a need for more active, practical help for bereaved people; working closely with other organisations working with people bereaved by homicide to review family liaison work, to improve communication and make sure that bereaved people can be helped more effectively; and updating Victim Support's volunteer training for supporting bereaved people.

Peter Dunn, Head of Research & Development at Victim Support, said: "The effect of bereavement by murder or manslaughter is emotionally and psychologically devastating for the hidden victims - the family and friends left behind. Our research paints a graphic picture of the wide-ranging feelings and circumstances that they experience. It gives us a new insight into the support needs of people bereaved by homicide. It will have a major impact on the re-development of Victim Support's services for people bereaved in this way. The findings from this research will be of enormous benefit, not only to Victim Support, but to other criminal justice agencies and other organisations working in this area".

June Price, from Pontefract, whose mother was murdered four years ago, says: "My Mum and I were really close, so when she was murdered I lost my best friend too. Over the years, Victim Support has played a big part in helping me come to terms with my grief. Whenever I feel low, I know that I can call them and talk to them, and that really helps. By explaining to bereaved people that their feelings are a normal reaction to an abnormal situation, I hope this report from Victim Support will help other people who have gone through what I have".

Victims of hate crime needed for research project by UK crime charity

Victims of racially motivated, faith and homophobic crimes in four areas of the country are being called upon by Victim Support to take part in a research project into hate crime.

The national charity is appealing for people who live in Cardiff, Oldham, Stoke-on-Trent and the London borough of Lambeth to talk to trained researchers about their experiences of a crime motivated by racism, religious prejudice or homophobia. Participants will take part in a one-hour, confidential face-to-face interview, either at a local Victim Support office or in the community (café, public library, etc) and must be over 18. Interviews are taking place in February and March.

The £100,000 research and development programme has been designed by Victim Support, in partnership with Co-operative Financial Services (CFS), to identify and understand the support needs of victims of hate crime in England and Wales. Victim Support will use the findings to develop and improve its services for supporting people affected by hate crime. Every year, the national charity helps around 22,000 people affected by racially motivated crime alone.

Katy Chaston, Research Manager at Victim Support, says: "Hate crime has a terrible effect on victims, and those close to them, as well as on whole communities. By listening to people's experiences, we will learn more about their needs and how other agencies can work with us to support victims. By actively taking part in this research, participants will be helping to educate people and improve services for other victims of hate crime".

Anyone interested in taking part can contact Julian V Hows at Michael Bell Associates on 020 7407 4010 or email julian@mba4consultancy.co.uk as soon as possible. Participants will be paid £10 to cover their expenses.

Notes for editors:

Victim Support has ISDN facilities for broadcast interviews - the National Office ISDN number is 020 7587 1538. Victim Support also has a number of images available for publication (© Victim Support) to illustrate hate crime.
Victim Support is the independent national charity for people affected by crime. Staff and volunteers offer free and confidential information and support for victims of any crime, whether or not it has been reported and regardless of when it happened. Victim Support works to increase awareness of the effects of crime and to achieve greater recognition of victims' and witnesses' rights. The organisation operates via a network of affiliated local charities, the Witness Service and Victim Supportline (0845 30 30 900). For further information see www.victimsupport.org
Co-operative Financial Services was formed in 2002 to bring together The Co-operative Bank, smile (the Internet bank) and the Co-operative Insurance Society (CIS).
Researchers from Michael Bell Associates will carry out the interviews between 1 February and 7 March 2006.

Victim Support welcomes review of 'confusing' crime statistics as new figures show rise in street violence

Victim Support has welcomed the Government's plans to review the way in which crime figures are produced and publicised, adding that the current system has led to mistrust and anxiety in the general population about levels of crime. The national charity's call for greater clarity comes as new figures from the Home Office show that violent crime reported to the police has risen by four per cent between July and September last year, while robbery has increased by 11%. Victim Support's Head of Communications, Paul Fawcett, says: "The current system is confusing and open to misinterpretation. The situation has been made worse by selective reporting in the media. We would welcome a fundamental review of the way the statistics are collated, calculated and presented, to help give a clearer picture of crime. Working with the victims of violent crime makes up a large part of our workload, so we're concerned that it's on the increase again. The Street Crime Initiative, which came to an end last April, seemed to be effective in reducing this kind of crime. Seeing these figures rise once again is a clear sign that we need similar measures to get street crime under control".

Historic London courts provide stage for landmark trials

Visitors to the Royal Courts of Justice can step back in time next month to witness a trial that helped establish the independence of juries. The trial of two Quaker men is being staged to raise money for the London Crown Court Witness Service, run by Victim Support, to provide support for people attending court. Nigel Pascoe QC will perform his one man play, The trial of Penn and Mead, in court four on Tuesday 28 February. The BBC Crimewatch presenter, Fiona Bruce, will introduce the performance.

The play is based on the story of William Penn and William Mead, who were accused at the Old Bailey in 1670 of causing a public disturbance at a street gathering of fellow Quaker supporters, and the extreme pressure put on the jury by the judge to return guilty verdicts. Despite imprisoning and fining jury members, they refused to obey the judge's instruction. Afterwards, Parliament ruled that juries should remain independent, and free to return a true verdict without fear of the consequences.

Nigel Pascoe QC says: "I enjoy performing the piece, particularly in such authentic surroundings, and it certainly offers an interesting slice of legal history. I'm delighted that the Witness Service will benefit from the evening, because its staff and volunteers do sterling work to help support people giving evidence in court, not just in London, but across the country".

Tickets for the event, which is sponsored by Reliance Secure Task Management, cost £35 and include a pre-show reception with canapes and wine. They can be purchased from Claire Brooke at Victim Support on 020 7896 3702 or from Witness Services in London. (Please see the contact details for the Witness Service in London for more details.)

Victimisation takes centre stage in school

Today, Victim Support begins a nine day consultation with young people in schools in three counties, who will be audience to a new drama production exploring the issues facing young victims of crime.

The play, It won't happen to me!, written by Victim Support and CragRats, illustrates how bullying can spill outside of the school gates, and encourages children to think about the effects that this can have on the victims, and those around them.

The performance sets the scene for a day of drama-based workshops designed to engage and consult with young people through the use of drama.

Victim Support branches in West Yorkshire, Norfolk and Croydon are the three areas in the country involved in the consultations - which also include young people who are socially excluded - and will take the lead in piloting new services for young victims of crime.

Pupils aged 11-14 at three local schools in each area will take part in the consultations between 19 and 31 January. The events will give Victim Support an opportunity to hear directly from children and young people about how they think Victim Support should develop its services for supporting young victims of crime and their families.

Dr Harriet Becher, National Project Manager, Young Victims Project at Victim Support, said: "Developing new services for children and young people is a huge challenge for Victim Support. The young people involved in these consultation events have the opportunity to have a real say in how young victims will be helped by Victim Support in the future, not just locally, but also on a national level".

Victim Support is working with CragRats, a leading UK training and learning organisation, to encourage young people to express their views and ideas through drama, rather than via traditional consultation processes.

Chris Simes, Education Brand Manager of CragRats, said: "The performance will promote the messages in a fun, informative, and dynamic way, punctuated by strong scenes that highlight the impact of victimisation. We know that young people learn more and retain information when they are engaged with the learning experience. The performance offers an array of easily identifiable characters, while delivering serious, thought-provoking and motivational messages".

Victim Support is developing a national strategy for supporting young victims of crime. These events will play an important role in that work.

The events are funded by a grant from the Y-Speak Youth Consultation Fund, a Government funded scheme which supports the involvement of young people in decision-making at both national and local level.

Victims say stopping re-offending is more important than prison

A new survey published today (16 January 2006) from SmartJustice and Victim Support gives a unique insight into how victims think the criminal justice system should deal with people who commit non-violent crimes. The findings challenge many pre-conceived ideas that victims always want heavy penalties such as prison. Instead, they support a range of measures which they believe are more effective in stopping further offending.

The most striking finding of the research, conducted by ICM, was that eight out of ten (80%) victims think that more constructive activities for young people in the community and better supervision by parents would be effective in stopping re-offending. Seven out of ten victims also want to see more treatment programmes in the community for offenders suffering from mental health problems, and for drug addicts, to tackle the causes of non-violent crime. Among the key findings from the poll, which asked how non-violent crimes like shoplifting, car theft and vandalism can be reduced, were:

two-thirds (62%) of victims think that going to prison does not prevent re-offending
more than half (54%) were in favour of making offenders work in the community - in schools, old people's homes or parks - to stop them returning to crime
51% of victims were also in support of making offenders meet their victims to make amends personally.

Lucie Russell, Director of SmartJustice, said: "This is the first ever survey of victims' views about non-violent crime. It's clear from the survey that most victims don't believe that prison produces law-abiding citizens. There is strong support for measures to improve parenting, more constructive activities for young people, more drug treatment for addicts and more mental health provision. What most people seem to want is not retribution but effective ways to prevent the next victim".

Peter Dunn, Head of Research & Development at Victim Support, said: "Victims are often assumed to be vengeful towards offenders and favour harsh punishments. This is misleading. Most victims, while feeling angry about what has happened to them, want the offender to stop offending both against them and against other people. This research confirms that a lot of victims are interested in the prospect of constructive work being done with offenders to prevent their further offending. It shows that many victims of crime want effective measures to tackle the root causes of offending, which involves more than vengeance and punishment for its own sake".

Chris Streeks, a 38 year old ex-offender who is now an actor, said: "I served 22 prison sentences in 18 years which did nothing to reduce my offending. Prison made me worse - and this survey shows victims want the kind of initiatives put in place that will stop people like me committing crime over so many years".

Clive Harold, who was the victim of anti-social behaviour for over two years, said: "I eventually met the person responsible for the crimes against me and in my opinion it was more effective than locking him up - I was at last able to tell him what affect his behaviour had on me and my wife, which helped a great deal. He was full of remorse and explained the reasons behind it. Eventually he got a job and has not offended since".

Please contact the below for more information or to arrange interviews with Lucie Russell, Peter Dunn, Chris Streeks or Clive Harold. SmartJustice: Lucie Russell, 0207 689 7734/07931 507873 or Sinead Hanks, 07931 380952. Victim Support: Paul Fawcett, 07764 161147 or Lucy Winter, 07725 429170.

Crime charity seeks 30 Londoners to give vital help to people affected by crime

Victim Support is calling for 30 Londoners to volunteer to give vital help to people affected by crime. The national charity is appealing for people to join the Victim Supportline, which provides practical help and information to victims and witnesses over the phone. Volunteers also give emotional support to allow people to talk openly about their experiences and, in many cases, help them to start rebuilding their lives.

The charity needs to increase the number of volunteers to make sure that more calls are answered. The helpline took over 15,500 calls last year - but more than double that number went unanswered. Just over half of all calls were related to violent crime, while one-fifth came from people affected by domestic violence.

Mansoor lives in Barnet and volunteers for the Supportline. He says: "I find working here very rewarding, because we're helping people to move on with their lives. The team is friendly and the training gave me the confidence to handle a wide range of calls. I feel really supported by the co-ordinators, who are always around if I need to check something."

Graham Lewis, Victim Supportline manager says: "Some victims are very angry and upset when they call us, while others are emotional or shocked into silence. We need volunteers who are patient, able to think quickly and clearly, and who don't judge others. Although we're based in south London, we're looking for people from all over the capital - from all ages, backgrounds and communities. Thirty new volunteers would make a huge difference to the number of people that we can help."

Nick Ross, BBC Crimewatch presenter says, "Victim Supportline provides a lifeline for victims of crime and witnesses, and those close to them. Every month on Crimewatch , we give out the number to ensure that anyone who's been affected by crime - directly or indirectly - can get support and practical help."

Anyone interested in finding out more about volunteering for Supportline can call 020 7896 3923 to ask for a volunteer information pack.

Victim Support comments on the publication of the Green Paper Rebuilding lives: supporting victims of crime (7 December 2005)

Commenting on the publication of the Government's Green Paper on services to victims of crime, Victim Support's Chief Executive, Dame Helen Reeves DBE, said: "As a charity, we have been struggling for years to give victims the high quality services they need and deserve. So we welcome the new emphasis on services in the Green Paper, particularly when we know that early intervention with support and information can help prevent longer-lasting and more serious problems for many victims of crime."

"We are pleased that the Green Paper seeks to address some of our long-standing concerns, including delays in providing help after an incident, stopping means tested benefits when victims receive compensation, and the overall lack of resources for victim services - which results in a postcode lottery for many victims."

"But we are concerned by the possibility that any increase in services might be funded at the expense of criminal injuries compensation. We believe that even a small payment of state compensation is an important gesture of recognition and solidarity for the distress and suffering caused by a violent crime. We welcome the wish to speed up and simplify the compensation system, but in an ideal world there would be well resourced services alongside an effective and equally well resourced compensation system."

Media statement on Amnesty International's poll on attitudes to rape (23 November 2005)

Joanna Perry, Policy Manager at Victim Support's National Office, says: "It is alarming to read that so many people seem to believe that a woman is responsible for inviting a rape or sexual assault because of what she was wearing, what she drank or how she behaved. Rape is an appalling crime and has a devastating effect on victims, and those close to them. In other words, nobody asks to be raped."

"As the poll points out, most people are unaware of the shockingly low conviction rate for rape, or the extent of rape in the UK. It is appalling that so few victims see their attacker brought to justice. We welcome improvements to the way that victims are treated, such as the introduction of specialist police, Crown Prosecution Service prosecutors and sexual assault referral centres. However, many victims still report being treated with ignorance and scepticism by police officers, healthcare professionals and barristers."

"Too few victims get access to essential support and are confused about the issue of consent [that the defendant must prove that he knew that the victim consented to sex]. We would urge criminal justice professionals, healthcare workers and support groups to take a serious look at these findings and consider how best to educate people about the terrible impact of rape, with a view to changing these attitudes."

Victim Support announces successor to retiring Chief Executive (1 September 2005)

Victim Support today (1 September 2005) announces that Gillian Guy has been recruited to succeed Dame Helen Reeves DBE as the organisation's Chief Executive on Helen's retirement at the end of 2005 after 26 years of service with the charity.

A solicitor by training, Gillian moved into the local government sector in the 1980's. As Chief Executive of the London Borough of Ealing for 11 years she was one of the longest-serving heads of a UK local authority. In this role she led a major programme of reform and restructuring to introduce a customer-focused approach to services across London's fourth largest borough. Gillian was also Vice-chair and Secretary of the London branch of the Society of Local Authority Chief Executives, Secretary to the West London alliance of six boroughs and a board member of the Local Learning and Skills Council. She takes up her new position in January 2006.

Impact of hate crime to be investigated (10 August 2005)

A major new research project announced today (10 August 2005) will look at the growing phenomenon of hate crime and the extent to which it is affecting British society and individual victims.

The £100,000 research programme, conducted by Victim Support and Co-operative Financial Services (CFS), will examine victims' needs, and help determine the extent of hate crime in England and Wales.

The findings will help Victim Support develop a national framework for supporting local communities at risk of hate crime. This will improve the range of support available to victims and inform criminal justice and voluntary agencies about hate crime. CFS' financial support will also fund the production of new guidance and a toolkit of resources for local Victim Support charities.

Hate crime has hit the headlines in the wake of the London bombings but there is far more to it than religiously motivated offences. It is defined as 'criminal conduct motivated by prejudice'.

Because the extent of hate crime is so wide - including attacks against lesbians, gay men and transgender people, members of minority ethnic communities, disabled people, refugees and asylum seekers - the research will focus on the experiences and needs of black and minority ethnic people. But the results will be applicable to the needs of many other groups targeted simply because of who they are.

Racially motivated crime referrals to Victim Support have been steadily rising in recent years and the organisation currently helps around 22,000 affected people a year.

Peter Dunn, Head of Research & Development at Victim Support, says: "Hate crime has a destructive effect not just on victims but on whole communities. The Government and the statutory services have begun to recognise it as a phenomenon, but little is known about how individual victims are affected. We also need to know more about how to support victims effectively and how to combat further victimisation.

"This project will help us deliver better services for victims of hate crime and for affected communities. It will help government, local agencies and researchers with their work as well. We're very grateful to CFS for funding it."

Chris Smith, Head of Community & Co-operative Affairs at CFS, which comprises of The Co-operative Bank and Co-operative Insurance Society, said: "As an insurance company and bank, we are only too aware of criminal activity as customers often contact us to report incidents and, as part of the wider co-operative family, we take the whole issue of diversity and attitudes to minorities in society particularly seriously.

"We understand the impact hate crime can have on individual communities but because no one really knows the breadth and depth of this phenomenon, we have decided to back this important research."

For more information, contact:

Victim Support

Paul Fawcett, 020 7896 3803, mobile 07764 161147, paul.fawcett@victimsupport.org.uk

Lucy Winter, 020 7896 3726, mobile 07725 429170, lucy.winter@victimsupport.org.uk

Andrew Buckingham, 020 7896 3750, mobile 07736 211148, andrew.buckingham@victimsupport.org.uk

Co-operative Financial Services

Dave Smith, 0161 829 5397, david.smith@cfs.co.uk

New report shows volunteers' work worth almostT £27 million a year to Victim Support (3 August 2005)

A new report commissioned by Victim Support to investigate the cost of its work has shown the huge value of volunteers in providing support to victims and witnesses. Based on detailed study of the work of staff and volunteers in six of the organisation's member charities, it found that volunteers provided help worth almost £27 million nationally last year. The organisation would need a further 1,100 paid staff across England, Wales and Northern Ireland to provide the same level of support as that given by its 11,000 volunteers.

The report was produced by chartered accountants Chantrey Vellacott DFK and used recognised ways of calculating the value of volunteer time. The work was funded by the Home Office as part of ongoing work to look at the way in which the Government helps fund Victim Support and the value of the public services the charity provides in return. The report gives a clear and overwhelming sense of the essential role of volunteers in running and delivering Victim Support's services in the community and in court.

The more detailed findings show that: Victim Support and Witness Service volunteers together donate 2 million hours of working time every year; the total monetary value of our volunteers' time is around £27 million a year. This is roughly equivalent in value to the annual grant from the Home Office to Victim Support; and for every £1 the charity spends on supporting and training volunteers, it creates a return of £5 in terms of the value of the work they do. This ratio is much higher than for other charities studied for comparison by the report.

Other issues are raised by the report in the context of trying to cost individual aspects of the services Victim Support provides. It suggests that funding for the organisation essentially delivers a package of support to the community. Attempts to work out the cost of helping an individual victim, or victims of a particular type of crime such as burglary, rape or domestic violence, will give misleading or meaningless results since volunteers provide the resources for that. And it highlights the need for the charity to have secure income in order to sustain and develop its services and plan for unforeseen crises.

"This report makes it crystal clear to all our funders that Victim Support's services are huge value for money," said Dame Helen Reeves DBE, Chief Executive of Victim Support. "The credit lies with our volunteers, who work so hard to support people in their own community whose lives have been touched by crime. And whatever the economic value, we know that the benefit to individual victims is often priceless. Recruiting new volunteers remains a challenge, as does raising sufficient funds to do all the work we need to do. But this report should convince all our supporters, and prospective volunteers, that getting involved in Victim Support is both valuable and a hugely effective way of helping others in need."

Young victims and disability on agenda at UK crime charity's national conference (30 June 2005)

The effect of crime on young people and the problems faced by disabled victims and witnesses will be debated at Victim Support's national conference (28 - 30 June) at the University of Warwick.

The Government's new Victims' Minister, Fiona McTaggart MP, will address the opening plenary, and the President of Victim Support, HRH The Princess Royal, will lead a discussion on increasing the charity's profile and financial independence on the final day of the conference.

Young victims and witnesses will be the focus of the opening plenary on Tuesday 28 June, attended by speakers from the Cambridge-based charity for bullied children, Red Balloon Centre; UK Youth Parliament; the University of Warwick; and Victim Support.

The difficulties faced by victims and witnesses with disabilities will be discussed on Wednesday 29 June by Chief Executive of the Employers' Forum on Disability, Susan Scott-Parker; Director of Voice UK, Kathryn Stone; Chief Executive of the Royal Association for Deaf People, Tom Fenton; and a visually impaired victim of assault, Michael Brothers, who will talk about his personal experiences.

Victim Support's financial independence and public profile are the subjects of the final plenary on Thursday 30 June, which will be attended by the President of Victim Support, HRH The Princess Royal; and speakers from the Media Trust, Charities Aid Foundation and Mortimer Whittaker O'Sullivan Advertising.

The Chief Executive of Victim Support, Dame Helen Reeves DBE, says: "Young people are more likely than adults to experience crime, even though they're often portrayed as the perpetrators of crime, rather than the victims. We also know that people with disabilities often come up against major difficulties when they go through the criminal justice system, either as victims or witnesses. The conference will help us share information and views about supporting these vulnerable members of the community, and ensuring that they have equal access to justice."

During the three-day conference, Victim Support's members and staff will attend and run workshops and seminars on topics including young witnesses; services to gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender victims; restorative justice; how to recruit and retain staff; and working with the media.

New leaflet from Victim Support spells out home truths about domestic violence (24 May 2005)

Victim Support's new leaflet for victims of domestic violence reveals the shocking extent of the crime, and provides information about the national charity's services.

The leaflet, which is aimed at male and female victims, points out that domestic abuse can happen between partners, within families or shared homes, and affects men and women (of all cultures, religions and classes) in both straight and gay relationships.

The police estimate that they get one call every minute from someone affected by domestic violence.
Studies show that one in four women - and one in six men - will experience domestic violence during their lifetime.
On average, a victim is assaulted 35 times before contacting the police.
Children are often present in the home - or in the same room - when a parent is being abused.
Victim Support helps around 90,000 victims of domestic violence a year - six times more than ten years ago.

Victims are usually put in touch with Victim Support by the police - but they can also make contact directly, whether or not they want to report the crime and regardless of when it happened. Our staff and volunteers are specially trained to give free and confidential information, practical help and emotional support to people who have been threatened or abused.

They will always prioritise the victim's safety and confidentiality, provide continuous support and give them time to think and make decisions. Victim Support can also help a victim's relative or friend. Research shows that just under half of victims will tell somebody about the abuse.

The leaflet will be available from our website and from the charity's local branches. Victims can remove a detachable card from the leaflet, if it is not safe to keep the whole leaflet at home. One side of the card has contact details for helplines - the other has been left blank to write details of useful local organisations or other information.

Head of Research and Development at Victim Support, Peter Dunn, says: "Domestic violence is a terrible crime and an appalling abuse of trust, and it affects people from all ages, cultures and social backgrounds. Our new leaflet talks about the crime, encourages people to get help from our service, even if they don't feel ready to report what has happened to the police, and it explains what we and others can offer victims and those close to them."

Victim Support appoints new chair of national Board of Trustees (16 May 2005)

Victim Support, the national charity that helps people cope with crime, has appointed Sarah Phillips as the new chair of its national Board of Trustees.

Sarah has a wide-ranging background in health and disability issues. She has been a trustee of the Multiple Sclerosis Society since 1992 and its chair since 1998 (she is due to step down from the role later in the year). She is the President and Chair of the MS International Federation, which brings together 45 national MS societies from around the world.

Since 2001, Sarah has been a Non-Executive Director of the North Essex Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust, where she chairs the board committee dealing with quality and risk issues. She is also chair of the Disability Working Group at the NHS Appointments Commission. Previous roles include being chair of the Colchester branch of the MS Society, and trustee of Leonard Cheshire nationally.

As a result of her extensive experience in the voluntary sector, Sarah has spoken widely on a range of issues about charity governance. Commenting on her new role with Victim Support, she said: "I'm delighted to have been appointed as chair of Victim Support's national Board of Trustees and excited by what I am sure will be an interesting and challenging role."

"The world of criminal justice and victim and witness issues is new to me, so it is reassuring to know that I'll be working with the Chief Executive, Dame Helen Reeves, who has so many years of experience and knowledge of both the issues and the organisation. I believe my own skills in charity governance will also prove to be an asset to Victim Support and I'm keen to apply them for the benefit of the organisation."

Diary note: Victim Support national conference 2005 (5 May 2005)

The national charity for people affected by crime, Victim Support, will hold its national conference at the University of Warwick, Coventry, from Tuesday 28 June to Thursday 30 June (inc). The guest speakers for the plenary sessions are:

Tuesday 28 June - Young victims and witnesses

Lord Justice Judge, Deputy Chief Justice of England and Wales
Carrie Herbert, Director, Red Balloon Learner Centre
Chris Jones, Member of UK Youth Parliament for Milton Keynes
Dr Ravi K. Thiara, Senior Research Fellow, School of Health and Social Studies, University of Warwick.

Wednesday 29 June - Victims and witnesses with disabilities

Susan Scott-Parker, Chief Executive, Employers' Forum on Disability
Tom Fenton, Chief Executive, Royal Association for Deaf People
Kathryn Stone, Director, Voice UK
Michael Brothers, a visually impaired assault victim.

Thursday 30 June - Raising Victim Support's independence and profile

HRH The Princess Royal, President of Victim Support (to be confirmed)
John O'Sullivan, Mortimer Whittaker O'Sullivan Advertising
Panikos Efthimiou, Charities Training Manager, Charity Aid Foundation
Caroline Diehl, Chief Executive, the Media Trust

Julian Opie gives contemporary edge to young victims leaflet (4 May 2005)

'Are you OK?' asks a new leaflet for young victims of crime, which features artwork by internationally-known artist Julian Opie.

The leaflet, which uses three of the artist's computer-designed portraits of young people, has been produced by Victim Support to offer information about its services, and basic facts for young people affected by crime, including bullying, theft and physical assault.

The leaflet tells young people:

feeling angry, upset, stressed or sick are normal reactions after a crime
being a victim of crime is not your fault
a Victim Support volunteer can help you by listening to what happened
you can contact Victim Support by phone or via our website
Victim Support is the national charity that helps people cope with crime and is independent of the police.

The national charity's 'young victims' campaign in February 2003 found that one in four of the 12 - 16 year-olds questioned had been victimised in the last twelve months. Violence, assault and theft were the most common offences.

Head of Research and Development at Victim Support, Peter Dunn, says: "Young people are more likely than adults to become victims of crime. But however good our services for this age group might be, they're of no use if young people haven't heard about us or don't find us appealing.

"Young people are bombarded with very sophisticated marketing, and it's difficult for a charity like ours to compete with big advertisers. We were looking for classic images of teenagers that wouldn't date or go out of fashion, and which would make it clear who our information was aimed at. We think Julian's work fits the bill perfectly, and we want to thank him for donating the images to us at no cost to Victim Support."

'Alarming' rise in classroom violence prompts free training offer from UK crime charity (29 April 2005)

Local education authorities in England and Wales are being offered free basic training in supporting victims of workplace violence, following reports about rising levels of assaults against teachers.

The first six LEAs to apply for the training, provided by Victim Support WorkForce Consultancy and Training, will be given two free half-day sessions on victim support skills and work-related violence. The service will be provided at no charge, other than expenses, at a location of the LEA's choice. All other LEAs that apply will be charged a nominal training fee, plus expenses, until the offer closes on 30 May.

The offer comes amid growing concerns that teaching staff are facing increasing levels of violence and abuse from pupils and parents. According to a survey by the Association of Teachers and Lecturers, almost three-quarters have considered leaving the profession. The survey of 300 secondary school staff found that 46% of respondents said they had suffered mental health problems because of abusive pupils, with one in seven claiming to have been physically assaulted.

Chief Executive of Victim Support Workforce Consultancy and Training, Ray Wilkinson, says: "There's been an alarming rise in classroom violence, and it's incredible that we're now hearing demands for CCTV, tighter security in school grounds and metal detectors to find pupils' concealed weapons, such as knives and guns. Working in this kind of atmosphere must have an appalling effect on staff health and morale, which will also affect their partners, friends and colleagues."

"From the LEA's perspective, staff who attend the training will be better able to support their colleagues who've become victims of workplace violence. Put another way, they'll be seen as responsible employers who invest in their staff and take their concerns seriously. Teaching staff will be able to cope better with their experiences and return to normal working sooner, if they've been well supported."

Local education authorities that are interested in applying for the training should contact Lorna Forbes on 020 7896 3772 or 07740 768945. The free sessions will be offered on a first come, first served basis.

"Give up one hour next week to help victims", urges UK crime charity (20 April 2005)

People across the country will be giving up one hour of their time next week (Monday 25 April - Sunday 1 May) to take part in Victim Support's Sunrise Appeal.

Victim Support Northamptonshire has organised a parachute jump; a sponsored walk over the Humber Bridge will bring in donations in north east England; Victim Support Essex is taking part in a live, 4-hour radio broadcast from a women's prison; and in London, Victim Support Wandsworth aims to raise £10,000 with a range of activities, including a 'fun run', pub quiz and wine tasting.

Victim Support has launched the Sunrise Appeal to raise money to provide support to 250,000 more victims every year, including children, lesbians and gay men, and people from minority ethnic communities. As part of the appeal, people are being asked to 'make some time for victims of crime' by taking part in one-hour fundraising activities.

Head of Fundraising, Ken Madine, says: "People can do anything they want to raise money for us, as long as it's safe and legal. If they're unable to give up an hour, they can donate £3 to their local Victim Support by texting the word Sunrise, followed by a space and then their postcode, to 80887."

In February this year, Victim Support commissioned a survey of 1,000 adults, which showed that one in four people in Britain would sleep, stay in bed, or do nothing more than sit and have a tea or coffee if they could 'magically have one extra hour in the day today'.

"We've had some great responses from celebrities, who've told us how they'd spend an extra hour. Liz Dawn from Coronation Street would help bullied children, Joanna Lumley would write to Tony Blair about global warming, Gary Lineker would play golf, and apparently, Christopher Biggins would become Queen and knight all his friends!" says Head of Communications, Paul Fawcett.

"We hope the appeal will help us achieve our ambition of being there whenever someone needs us, and for that, we need more resources. The beauty of this appeal's message lies in its simplicity. Essentially, it's 'find a spare hour during your week and spend it doing something to help us help other people - and enjoy yourself at the same time'".

To find out more about the Sunrise Appeal and 'make some time for victims of crime' week, log onto the special website at www.makesometime.org.uk

Male victims of rape and sexual assault offered new information by UK crime (31 March 2005)

Victim Support has produced its first leaflet to offer information about its services to men who have been raped or sexually assaulted.

Rape and sexual assault: Information for men includes basic information on the emotional impact of the crime; deciding whether or not to report the crime; health issues (including sexually transmitted infections); going to court; criminal injuries compensation; and Victim Support's services.

The leaflet points out that many assaults are committed by someone known to the victim, including partners or close friends, rather than strangers. It also explains that being a male victim of rape or sexual assault does not mean the victim - or the attacker - is gay, which could be a source of concern to many men who experience this type of crime.

It is estimated that around one in 20 men have been sexually assaulted at least once in their lifetime. Last year, Victim Support's local branches in England and Wales offered support to 6,658 people of both sexes affected by rape, and 14,362 people affected by other types of sexual crime.