A NEW Victim Care Service has been launched, providing support and advice for Hampshire residents who have been affected by crime.

The service provides support for victims and witnesses of crime to cope with, and recover from, the harmful effects of the crime they have experienced, while also providing access to specialist teams who deal with the most vulnerable of victims, such as those who have experienced domestic or sexual abuse.

This is open to all victims, no matter what the type of crime, regardless of whether the crime has been reported to the police or not, and no matter how recently or how long ago the crime took place.

Police and Crime Commissioner, Michael Lane, said: “While we have seen our communities pull together to help each other during this time, sadly, we have also seen those who wish us harm exploiting the situation to take advantage of the vulnerable.

"I would like to remind everyone that the police are still working to fight crime, protect victims and tackle anti-social behaviour. And equally reinforce that support services for victims like the Victim Care Service very much remain in place and stand ready to offer help and advice. This new website complements the support over the phone that the Victim Care Service continues to provide during the pandemic.”

The website - www.hampshireiowvictimcare.co.uk - offers tips on how to protect yourself from different types of crime and advice on what to do if you experience them and it also includes a comprehensive database of organisations that can be searched by individuals and professionals looking to meet a specific support need.

A Victim Care Service freephone number is also available on 0808 178 1641, with the service being open from 9am-5pm Monday to Friday, and a Live Chat service that is contactable 24/7 on Victim Support’s website.