Victim Support has today launched a mobile centre in London to support international tourists who fall victim to crime, in association with the Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC) and the Metropolitan Police.

The new International Visitors Victims Centre in Leicester Square – the first of its kind in the UK – will provide assistance to foreign tourists who become victims of crime in the capital.

The centre has been established as part of the International Visitor Victims Service, which offers free emotional and practical support to victims, and is celebrating its one year anniversary. The help available includes offering help with the loss of travel documents, accommodation, medical treatment, accessing funds and offering a translator services.

Margaret Bourne, Victim Services Manager for Victim Support in London, said: “Falling victim to crime while overseas can be an extremely distressing experience. At home, people can turn to family, friends, police and support services for help, but knowing where and how to get help abroad can be traumatic.

“The International Visitors Victim Service, operated by specially trained Victim Support staff and volunteers, is a dedicated service which enables tourists to access the help and support they may desperately need following crime.

“We will offer any visiting victims emotional support and practical help, or refer them to other avenues of support if they need more specialist help in the UK or in their home country.”

Foreign visitors who have been victims of crime can visit the mobile police kiosk in the West End ‘impact zone’ – an area across Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus. Alternatively, they can contact the International Visitor Advocates by calling 020 7259 2424 or visit the West End Central Police Station, 27 Savile Row, London W1S 2EX.