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A local charity is eager to reassure islanders that support is still available for anyone who has been affected by crime.
The Bailiwick of Guernsey Victim Support and Witness Service is an independent charity that was set up in 1998 to help victims of crime. Since then its remit has expanded so that it now also provides support to witnesses giving evidence in Guernsey’s courts. In 2019 Victim Support came into contact with 380 victims of crime. Most of these will have been referred by the police, some via other statutory agencies or medical practices, and others will be self-referrals.
Victim Support staff and volunteers can provide free and confidential support to anyone who has been affected by burglary, assault, domestic abuse, fraud, harassment, recent or historical sexual abuse, murder, rape or any other type of crime. The charity recognizes that crime has a ripple effect so, as well as supporting direct victims of crime, they can also support a victim’s family, friends and colleagues. Staff and volunteers are police checked and trained in providing emotional and, where appropriate, practical support to anyone over the age of 18. They are not trained counsellors but instead provide a listening service. It is important not to underestimate the power of talking and listening.
Debbie Robinson, manager of the Service, says that in this extraordinary time of social isolation the island’s Victim Support services are still available for those who need it.
“We have an incredible group of 25 volunteers, some of whom have been with us for over 20 years. The experience, commitment and conduct of our whole team is something we are extremely proud of.”
“Whilst we cannot support clients face-to-face at the moment, we do have volunteers available to offer telephone support. At a time when many people are finding themselves with very few people to interact with, we recognize that victims of crime who are struggling to deal with their experience may need our support now more than ever.”
If you have been affected by crime, either directly or indirectly, and would like to talk to someone, please contact Victim Support by telephone on 01481 713000 or via email at victimsupportgsy@cwgsy.net. The Service also has a website, www.victimsupport.gg and a Facebook page, www.facebook.com/victimsupport.gg/.
