VICTIMS of crime in West Mercia will get the support they need after an £800,000 boost.
Crime Commissioner Bill Longmore has pledged his commitment to help victims of crime in the area following funding from the Government.
The Ministry of Justice transferred money and responsibility for victim services to police and crime commissioners, who will eventually take over the role from April this year.
As part of the move, Mr Longmore has signed a three-year contract with Victim Support to use the new funding to help 32,000 people a year.
The type of help on offer will range from a detailed needs assessment over the phone, emotional and practical support, as well as linking with specialist agencies.
Mr Longmore said: “I am very happy with this new deal and what it will offer. It represents better value for money for the public, better services for victims of crime, and access to support for many more people.
“I’m very happy to be working with Victim Support, who have a long and successful track record in this area, and I’m sure that will extend to this contract as well.
“I’m certain though that there’s even more we can do to support victims of crime, and we’ll keep reviewing our services and forging new partnerships to try and achieve any improvements we can.”
