NCJ Number
93235
Date Published
1983
Length
46 pages
Annotation
This research on the nature and extent of provision for victims of crime finds that Victim Support Schemes (VSS's) provide a valuable service to crime victims, but that better coordination with other agencies would enable even more victims to receive assistance.
Abstract
Methodology for the study involved review of data from National Association of Victim Support Services questionnaires supplemented by in-depth interviews with over 20 victim program representatives by attendance at volunteer meetings, and by extensive surveys of agencies in six specific areas of England. Victim support schemes represent the first attempt in Britain to offer services to victims of various criminal offenses. The programs for victim support supply assistance in the form of financial or nonfinancial aid. The services provided range from assistance in completing insurance forms to rape hot lines and help in dealing with the grueling role of court witness. Victim agencies deal with a substantial number of property offenses, especially burglary and VSS coordinators work with the police force to identify victims in need of aid. Victims of some crime types such as domestic violence offenses, seldom come in contact with either the police or the VSS's and often seek help from other agencies with which they have had prior experience. Unfortunately, these organizations frequently lack the knowledge and resources to properly guide the individual through the dilemma. Conversely, the VSS's encounter situations of particular complexity or long-term need in which the resources of other agencies are required. Strengthened interaction between the VSS and other agencies would clearly alleviate both problems, especially since the VSS's limited resources preclude giving thorough assistance to all victims. The appendix discusses the pilot study. References and a catalog of related studies are included.