Frontline workers at Victim Support’s new Offender Release Helpline met with the Minister for Victims, Violence Against Women and Girls and International Justice, Alex Davies-Jones, when she visited the charity’s HQ in Cardiff on October 29. 

The Minister met Victim Support staff – including call handlers at the new helpline – to learn more about the specialist support provided to victims and witnesses during the first few weeks of the new service. Since its launch on 1 October, specialist advisers at the helpline have been on hand to offer guidance on wellbeing, personal safety and next steps, helping victims and witnesses – and those supporting them – to understand what to expect, navigate the situation they’re facing, and access the support they need.   

The Offender Release Helpline is based alongside other specialist services at the charity’s National Contact Centre (NCC) in Cardiff, including our national Supportline. Frontline workers at the NCC support thousands of victims every year, affected by all types of crime. Its specialist caseworkers help people understand their options, navigate the criminal justice system, develop personal safety plans, access practical support and feel heard and believed after often traumatic experiences. 

The Minister sat down at a private roundtable with frontline staff and senior leaders at Victim Support, including the charity’s Chief Executive, Katie Kempen, to hear how the helpline is supporting those who are worried about, or affected by, the early release of prisoners. She heard: 

  • The needs and circumstances of every caller are different so support is tailored to each individual caller. Support includes listening and providing emotional reassurance, discussing immediate safety or wellbeing concerns, offering practical guidance and helping someone identify appropriate ongoing support.  
  • For people with more complex needs, we can provide dedicated casework, including needs and risk assessment, safety planning and referrals for ongoing support. 

We have also established Future Me, a specialist online peer support programme for children and young people affected by the early release of an offender. Anyone supporting a young person can contact the helpline to find about more about this service and whether it is right for a child or young person they’re supporting.  

Katie Kempen, Chief Executive at Victim Support, said:

“We were delighted to welcome the Victims’ Minister today and speak with her about the incredible work being done by our helpline team to support those worried about the early release of prisoners. 

“Supporting victims and witnesses through the impact of crime is why Victim Support exists. We are proud to be able to provide free, independent, specialist support through our dedicated helpline, at this deeply difficult and unsettling time for many victims. Our specially trained advisers give callers information, the space to be heard, practical guidance to protect their safety and wellbeing, and help them to understand next steps. 

“But as more people find out that offenders are due for early release, we’re urging anyone who is worried to get in touch – victims, witnesses, family, friends, carers and professionals. Our helpline is open to all – anyone can call on freephone 0808 168 9280 or visit our website to start a live chat with one of our specialist advisers.”