How we can help

How We Can Help

We Can Help

If you live in Tyne & Wear or Northumberland and have been a victim or witness of crime we can provide free and confidential support to help you to cope and recover and move on.

You Have Been A Victim of Crime

A person who has experienced being a victim of crime can refer themselves to us, referrals can also be made through the Police or a third party if they have your consent.

How We Can Help

We understand that the ‘road to recovery’ looks different for every person who has experienced crime. That’s why your support officer who will be assigned to work with you, will take the time to understand your needs and how best to meet them.

First Contact

One of our Victims and Witness Support Officers will make contact with you via your preferred method of contact. Phone (from a withheld number) text, email or letter. A face to face meeting may be possible following initial contact.

Your Emotional Needs

Everyone deals with the impact of crime differently and has their own way of coping. This varies enormously depending on your personality, the support you have around you and your personal circumstances.

Our experienced staff are trained to help you understand what has happened. We also have trained volunteers who can offer support. Often just talking to someone outside of friends or family can help you make sense of what has happened and find a way to cope and recover from what you have experienced. We can provide telephone or face-to-face support and help you to access specialist support from our partner organisations and other services.

Your Safety and Security

The impact of crime can be practical as well as emotional. Our trained staff will help you explore practical issues from understanding the criminal justice process through to advising on secure your property or increase your personal safety.

Support at Court

Many people tell us they can find the court process intimidating or confusing. We have trained staff who can assist you through the court process from beginning to end.

We also work closely with the Court Liaison Service, the witness service and the courts to ensure we give you up to date information and that you have help and support understanding what will happen should you need to go to court. Find more about our court support here.

Restorative Justice

Restorative Justice is a voluntary process that allows victims and offenders to communicate and move forwards positively to repair the harm caused.

We can offer Restorative Justice to both individuals and businesses affected by crime.

Click here to find out more about Restorative Justice