Gwent PCC Pays Tribute to Victim Support as they Celebrate Big 40

2nd January 2014

Victim Support provides support to victims of crime which ranges from visits to victims by trained volunteers to help with insurance claims, criminal injuries compensation and even attendance at court. The service also provides the free fitting of locks to the homes of elderly people who have been the subject of criminal attack.

From humble beginnings as a local community project, the independent charity has grown into the world's biggest charity for victims and witnesses. It now contacts more than one million victims of crime every year and helps more than 200,000 people giving evidence in court.

In July last year they were honoured by Gwent Police Force for their contribution to 'Operation Jasmine' - Britain's biggest ever police investigation into nursing home neglect which began in 2005. In a ceremony held at Gwent Police Headquarters in Cwmbran, the Chief Constable, Jeff Farrar, commended Victim Support on their "professionalism" and "excellence" in supporting the families of patients. The subsequent investigation lasted seven years and identified more than 100 potential victims in six care homes across Wales.

Highlighting the significant impact that Victim Support has had in Gwent over the years, the Gwent Police and Crime Commissioner, Ian Johnston, said: "I would like to congratulate Victim Support on all their hard work and dedication over the years as they celebrate such a significant milestone in their history.

The organisation has helped countless victims and witnesses of crime here in Gwent in what are often very distressing and challenging circumstances. A special mention needs to go out to all the dedicated volunteers who give up their own spare time to provide this invaluable service to people who really need their support.

Victim Support were instrumental in helping us to design our Victims' Charter which was launched last year and ensures a victim-centred focus to the services being delivered by Gwent Police and our other partners. Protecting victims and improving the way services are delivered to victims of crime is at the heart of everything we do.

He added: "I would like to wish all the best to Victim Support as they look forward towards the next 40 years."