As part of the ‘Safer in Stockport’ summer safety campaign, the Safer Stockport Partnership, which includes Stockport Council and Greater Manchester Police, is promoting services available to victims of crime.
People who have been a victim of any crime or have been affected by a crime committed against someone they know can contact Victim Support Stockport. They are there to help people find the strength to deal with crimes that have affected them.
Victim Support Stockport services are free and available to everyone, whether or not the crime has been reported to the Police and regardless of when it happened.
Victim Support is a national charity operating throughout England and Wales which speaks out as a national voice for victims and witnesses. It is not part of the police, the courts or any other criminal justice agency and has trained volunteers who offer:
- someone to talk to in confidence
- information on police and court procedures
- help in dealing with other organisations
- information about compensation and insurance
- information on other sources of help
Councillor Mark Weldon, Stockport Council’s Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Corporate, Customer and Community Services, said:
“Victim Support Stockport carry out vital services in the borough for anyone who has been a victim or affected by any crime.”
“During the month of August there will be a series of ‘Safer in Stockport’ initiatives, these events will provide people with the information they need to protect themselves from criminal and anti-social behaviour during the holiday period whether they are staying at home or are going away.”
An anonymous Victim Support Service user from Stockport said:
‘My wife and I feel so relieved, your support has changed our lives, and we can now start to live a normal life again. Thank you for staying in touch and coming to see us, it’s been good to know there has been some one there for us throughout this.’
Anybody affected by crime who would like emotional support or practical advice, can contact Victim Support in confidence on 0845 456 8800. Lines open from 8.00am to 8.00pm. Monday to Friday and 9.00am to 5.00pm alternate Saturdays.
For more information on Victim Support visit www.victimsupport.org.uk
For more information about the Safer Stockport Partnership (SSP) and the ‘Safer in Stockport’ campaign visit www.saferstockport.org.uk or call 0161 474 3143 or follow us on Twitter @SaferStockport