Victims of crime can find support on new victims’ services directory

Those who have been targeted by criminals can now find the right support and advice on Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner’s new victims’ services directory.

The new victim’s directory is for people who have been affected by crime and provides information on various agencies, organisations and charities that offer support and advice. The easy-use site explains the local services that are available, with contact details and map links. Users can search by an organisations name, by crime type or by nearest town. The PCC website hosts the directory and replaces the Cumbria Together website that was launched in 2016.

Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Peter McCall, said: “One of my key priorities and part of my role as PCC is to support victims of all crimes which is why I have added a victims’ services directory to my website.

“It is incredibly important that anyone who has been subjected to a crime can access support, advice and information in their area.

“I would always encourage anyone who has had a crime committed against them to call the Police, but I understand that not everyone wants their involvement. This is why a directory like this is so important – anyone can visit the website and find the type of support they want to receive, with or without Police involvement.

“Crime can have a lasting effect on someone’s life so it is essential that anyone can gain access to help and learn how to cope and recover as best they can to live a long and happy life without fear.

“The directory is under the ‘Victim Services’ tab on my website and is user-friendly for all ages. I would encourage anyone looking for support to visit the website and have a look at their options.

“I also want to encourage any service in Cumbria that feels that they can provide support to victims to get in touch with my office on 01768 217734 or commissioner@cumbria-pcc.gov.uk and get added to the directory.”