NCJ Number
209412
Date Published
July 2004
Length
10 pages
Annotation
This article presents detailed information about the services offered by Victim Support in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Abstract
Emotional support, practical help, and information are the main services offered by Victim Support; not provided are legal advice, counseling, and medical information. Individuals needing help beyond the scope of Victim Support will be assisted in identifying and locating the appropriate services. Ample evidence indicates that criminal victimization can cause post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), although there is still debate about what constitutes PTSD. Victim Support offers assistance for those possibly suffering from PTSD as a result of criminal victimization, including liaisons with health professionals and access to specialized help, such as referrals to organizations like SAMM (Support After Murder and Manslaughter). While Victim Support training teaches some counseling skills, such as active listening, professional counseling services are beyond the scope of Victim Support due to the long-term nature of professional counseling, among other reasons. However, Victim Support will offer emotional support for those on inevitably long waiting lists for professional counseling. The United Kingdom’s Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme for victims of violent crime is described, including its four major revisions, why it was introduced, and the conditions for an award. Victim Support will help crime victims determine if they should apply for such an award and will assist in the application process. Finally, Victim Support services for vulnerable and intimidated witnesses are described, as is the 1999 Youth Justice and Criminal Evidence Act, which includes special measures for these types of witnesses.