Domestic Abuse Awareness - Victim Support

Police and Crime Commissioner Angus Macpherson funds a number of support services throughout Wiltshire and Swindon that help victims of domestic abuse. Every day this week we will be highlighting each of them in the hope that many more victims will be empowered to get the help they need.

I am delighted to commission £567,128 worth of funding into Victim Support Wiltshire. Last year the charity offered support to more than 1,200 people affected by crime in Wiltshire.

Victim Support gives emotional and practical help to people who have been affected by crime in Wiltshire. They are an independent charity and you can contact them for support regardless of whether you've contacted the police, and no matter how long ago the crime took place. They will help you for as long as it takes to overcome the impact of crime.

All survivors of domestic abuse should be able to get the support they need to move on from the impact of abuse. Victim Support doesn't just help people who've recently experienced domestic abuse — they are also here to support men and women, weeks, months and years afterwards.

All of their services are confidential, free and available to anyone who's experienced domestic violence:

• Their IDVA (Independent Domestic Violence Advocates) services are staffed by specialist caseworkers and supported by specialist volunteers. These workers will help you to decide what action you want to take and the support and help that feels right for you. IDVAs often support survivors through the criminal justice system, if you choose to report the crime and co-ordinate health and support services.
• They have domestic abuse outreach services, which are provided by specialist caseworkers and volunteers who will work with you in the community, co-ordinating support and providing direct practical and emotional support. They work from health services, police stations, hospitals and community centres to provide information and support to a wide number of people.

If you call your local Victim Support team, they will make sure you get the information and support you need. This might be arranging a meeting for you to talk to them and receive emotional support in confidence, helping you to fill out a compensation form or get advice on how to make your home more secure, or referring you to other specialist organisations that can also help.

If you've been affected by domestic abuse, or any crime, please call your local victim care team in Wiltshire on 0808 281 0113. Lines are open 9am-7.30pm Monday to Friday, and 10am-4pm on Saturdays.