Steve Double, Member of Parliament for St Austell and Newquay, has joined Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon and Cornwall Alison Hernandez and local MPs to launch a new website to help victims of crime within Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.
The new website, which is just one doorway to getting help, is aimed at helping victims to access the care and support they need and provides a single route for all victims regardless of whether or not they have reported the crime.
The new website provides crucial information about victim’s rights and helps them to understand their journey and what will happen in relation to criminal justice, the police and other agencies.
Commenting, Steve said:
“I was pleased to recently host an event in Parliament for our Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez to showcase to Devon and Cornwall MPs the services her office has commissioned to help support victims of crime, including the new Victim Care website offering specialist support and information to those who need it.”
“Along with record numbers of police on the beat in Devon and Cornwall, thanks to the Government’s recruitment drive since 2019, it is good to see victims of crime provided with the support they need to recover. I will continue to work with all concerned to ensure we give our police the resources to tackle crime, while supporting those who are the victims of it.”
Commenting, PCC Hernandez said:
“I am determined to make sure that victims reach out, especially those who feel less inclined to report crime, and come through the victim’s website.
“My aim is to ensure that every victim of crime feels able to come forward and access the help and support that they need and are entitled to. I want people to have the confidence that they will be believed and to know what the next steps are in seeking justice.”
The Office partnered with Victim Support in April 2021 and was backed by £3.4million budget for 2022/23 with a budget of £3.42million for 2023/24.
During 2021-22 a total of 41,112 people were supported through this pathway, with over 11,000 more than the previous year being referred to therapeutic services. Victims can range from rape, domestic abuse, sexual offences and burglary.
The website can be found at https://victimcare-dc.org and advice and support can be made through a 24-hour supportline number 0808 168 91111 or by 24 hour live chat.