Rachael Reeves, the Engagement Officer at Victim Support in York wrote us this guest blog highlighting the support that is available for anyone who has experienced a crime.
Anyone can be affected by a crime, and it can be a very frightening and traumatic experience.
North Yorkshire Police have recently reported that burglaries in York have more than doubled in the past year, which leaves many people locally coping with the impact and effects of crime in their own homes. Even if nothing is stolen most people feel anxious and less secure in their home afterwards.
Jo from North Yorkshire was home with her husband one evening when they heard a noise. On pulling back the curtains, Jo found herself face to face with a burglar who had smashed locks and tried to force open windows at the family home.
Jo contacted Victim Support and through a specialist caseworker we were able to provide emotional support to help deal with the anxiety caused by the experience. Jo’s caseworker, Helen, helped her to realise that it is ok to feel worried and anxious when you are a victim of crime, but with the right support it is possible to cope and more forward positively.
Jo said: “During my sessions with Helen I felt extremely supported in a warm and caring way and her guidance helped me to see my issues more clearly. We had a good rapport and she listened with empathy and seemed to be aware of how I was feeling and thinking. Helen’s input has had a very positive impact on how I view the future and I will continue to use the techniques and the app that she recommended. A brilliant service, thank you.”
Victim Support is here to help. We are an independent charity offering free and confidential support to people affected by crime and traumatic incidents. You do not have to report a crime to receive support from us and we can help in the following ways:
- Personal support with a specially trained person – you can speak in confidence, ask questions, get advice and emotional support.
- Putting you in touch with other specialist help, services or support.
- Practical information and help to make you feel safer and be safer. We can help you secure your home and provide personal alarms.
- Information about reporting to the police, the criminal justice system and court procedures.
We know that crime can affect the whole family, so we can offer support to everyone directly affected, and help parents and carers to support children coping with the impact of crime.
You can call us weeks, months or even years after a crime, we are here to listen and help.
Get help from your local team:
– If you’ve been affected by crime and need support or information, call Supporting Victims in North Yorkshire on 01609 643 100.
-Lines are open Monday to Friday 8am-7pm.
-To learn more about victim services in North Yorkshire, visit the Supporting Victims website.
-If you need support outside of these open hours, call the Victim Support 24/7 Supportline for free on 08 08 16 89 111
-If you would like more information about our service you can visit our website www.victimsupport.org.uk
[Names have been changed to protect identities]
