Victims of crime in Merseyside are being encouraged to share their experiences with the support services they received to assist others in need. Merseyside’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Emily Spurrell, is seeking input from individuals who have been impacted by crime within the last three years to provide feedback on the support they received and help enhance future services.
Victim Care Merseyside, managed by Emily, offers a specialized support program that aims to provide victims and survivors of crime with the necessary assistance to cope and recover from the aftermath of criminal incidents. This program includes a central hub staffed with trained personnel who act as a single point of contact for all victims, offering free and confidential advice and support. Additionally, there are 10 independent local organizations that provide tailored care to the most vulnerable victims of crime.
With a focus on preventing individuals from becoming repeat victims, protecting victims from further harm, and aiding them in their recovery process, Victim Care Merseyside ensures that services are seamlessly coordinated and consistent across the region. In the past year alone, nearly 60,000 victims have benefited from these support services.
As part of a comprehensive review of the provision, the Commissioner is conducting a consultation to assess the evolving needs of victims in Merseyside and to determine how care and support should be delivered from 2027 to 2032. A six-month Merseyside-wide survey is underway, inviting community members to participate in an online questionnaire to evaluate the effectiveness of existing referral processes and support services, as well as identify areas for potential improvements.
Emily Spurrell emphasized the importance of continually seeking ways to enhance victim support services, highlighting the significant impact that effective support can have on individuals who have experienced crime. She underscored the value of gathering feedback from those directly affected by crime, noting that their voices are essential in shaping the future of victim support in Merseyside. By actively sharing their experiences, participants can contribute to meaningful dialogue that will help shape the evolution of victim support services in the region
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