Victim Support

In our latest report, 'Suffering for justice' we explored sexual violence victim-survivors’ experiences of the criminal justice system. As part of their trials, we found that notes from counselling and content from mobile phones were used during the cross examinations. Victim-survivors’ full medical records were also used during cross-examination, which in their opinion was not relevant to the case. Victim-survivors who took part in this research felt that being asked questions they saw as irrelevant and inappropriate added to what was already an incredibly difficult experience. You can read our recommendations for improving victim-survivors' experiences and the full report on our website: https://lnkd.in/eg_94Sbp

It's #LGBTHistoryMonth and this year's theme is activism and social change. We want to be part of helping shape and create social change so we’re sharing our tips on how to be an ally to the LGBTQ+ community. If you’re in the LGBTQ+ community, we stand with you. #LGBTQPlus #LGBT #Ally

We've launched a specialist service for victims of #RelationshipFraud in London, Kent and Sussex. Relationship fraud happens when someone is deceived into thinking they are in a genuine friendship or romantic relationship with someone who is actually a criminal. It often takes place online, with the scammer coercing the victim into sending money or holding or transferring funds to another account. Lauren, Relationship Fraud Service Manager, said: “Sadly, there is so much shame and stigma around relationship fraud. Many victims are too embarrassed to open up to their friends or family about what has happened, leaving them isolated and vulnerable. That’s why this service is so important. Support is personalised, from providing a safe space to talk or setting up peer support with other victims, through to information and advice about how to get your money back. If you have been affected, don’t suffer in silence – contact our service for support.” https://lnkd.in/eQVqZbhU

Research published by the Institute For Fiscal Studies (IFS) has found that despite recent increases, the Ministry of Justice budget has still not returned to pre-2010 levels. While many areas of government experienced spending cuts during the 2010s, the IFS found the Ministry of Justice has fared worse than the average department over the past decade and a half, and worse than other ‘unprotected’ departments. Katie Kempen, Chief Executive at Victim Support said: “This chronic, prolonged under investment in the Ministry of Justice has left us with a criminal justice system coming apart at the seams. Prisons are full, court delays have hit record levels and most recently, vital victims’ services have been hit with further funding cuts. The government must use the upcoming spending review to put this right and invest in our justice system and the vital services that support victims. Halving violence against women and girls is an ambitious goal – it can only be achieved through substantial and sustained investment.” https://lnkd.in/eXHM4HAz #CriminalJusticeSystem

Our latest research explored sexual violence victim-survivors' experiences of the #CriminalJusticeSystem and court process. All victim-survivors that took part in our research felt their Independent Sexual Violence Adviser (ISVA) was the right person to be with them during cross-examination in court. However, this is not the standard practice meaning that not all victim-survivors were allowed to have their ISVA present with them in court. Those who were allowed recalled it having a positive effect on their experience. Our recommendation? Across all courts there needs to be a greater recognition and understanding of the importance of the roles of ISVAs. All victim-survivors should have the opportunity to have their sexual violence support worker walk with them to the court room and sit near them when they are giving evidence. Read our full recommendations and the report on our website: https://lnkd.in/eg_94Sbp #ItsNotOK #SASVAW24 #SexualAbuseAndSexualViolenceAwarenessWeek

At Victim Support, we have six equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) networks. They’re open to staff and volunteers who identify with the groups, or who want to be an ally. The aim of the networks is to explore the issues affecting the communities and identities that they represent in a safe environment. We had a conversation with Sue and Jessica, the co-chairs of the Mental Health Network. They think of the network as a confidential space and a chance to give members the opportunity to take some time for themselves. Jessica said: “I love the element of getting people to stop and have a breather... it’s important to take your thoughts back to yourself from time to time and to have a minute for yourself.” Sue and Jessica wanted to be involved in the Mental Health Network to be a positive influence for Victim Support. Sue told us about her passion for wellbeing: “Wellbeing didn’t exist in my previous jobs before Victim Support and so for me, to see this group of people meet up and have discussions around mental health, is amazing. I love that Victim Support are invested in wellbeing – very few companies are as invested as VS. It makes everyone feel like they matter.” The network has separate meetings for managers and employees. This was carefully considered to ensure everyone felt comfortable and able to speak freely in the space. It also highlights that the network is open to anyone at Victim Support - in Jess’s words, “the door is always open.” Martyn, the Senior Leadership Team champion for the network, commented: “The network has benefitted our organisation by promoting mental health awareness and providing essential resources. It’s important for us to support our people by giving time and space to think about their wellbeing and to look at strategies and approaches that can have a positive impact.” Want to know more about our EDI networks? Visit our website: https://lnkd.in/eHKfKgnr #MentalHealthMatters #Wellbeing #EDI

The government’s response to the “serious and growing problem” of violence against women and girls has been ineffective, the UK’s spending watchdog, the UK National Audit Office, has said. Responding to the report, our Chief Executive, Katie Kempen, said: “It’s important that the current government utilises the valuable lessons from this report, particularly the need to address not only the causes, but also the consequences, of gender-based violence. While prevention is vital, thousands of domestic and sexual violence victim-survivors need fully-funded support services now. To deliver their promise of halving violence against women and girls in a decade, the government must immediately reverse planned cuts to victims’ services and instead increase funding to cover the immense cost pressures brought by the rise to National Insurance.” https://lnkd.in/eQk2usv8 #VAWG

We joined forces with West Sussex County Council and Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner to host a dedicated domestic abuse conference at The Amex in Brighton. The theme for the day was ‘Nobody Left Behind’, highlighting the importance of ensuring domestic abuse services are inclusive to all. We were thrilled to welcome many providers from across the county, working to support those affected by domestic abuse. A huge thanks to our Deputy Service Director, LaToya Ridge, who gave an inspiring presentation about how to cater for the needs of Black women experiencing domestic abuse and survivors from LGBTQ+ and disabled communities. Sidonia Porteous, Operations Manager at VS Sussex, one of the event organisers, described the day as: “… another huge step towards improving joint working and boosting education and understanding about domestic abuse in Sussex.” #DomesticAbuse

Do you have spare time to give and want to make a difference? You can #Volunteer for us. We're always grateful for the work of our volunteers and we have various roles available. Find out more about getting involved: http://ow.ly/W4FF50ES5JT #Charity #ThankYou #GetInvolved

Today we’re launching our new ‘Understand Your Rights’ Victim’s Code campaign. Every victim, whoever they are and whatever the crime, has the right to be informed about the criminal justice process and the support available. Help us reach as many people as possible so that everyone understands their rights ➡️ https://bit.ly/3C4L4Nl #VictimsCode