£1m victim support scheme launched

A £1million scheme to support victims of crime in Lincolnshire is set to be unveiled.

In April, Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for the county Alan Hardwick became responsible for commissioning services for victims of crime.
Initially, the previous scheme run by Victim Support was extended until September but a large amount of work has now been done to design a new scheme to support victims which will begin in October.
It will involve a newly created team of police staff, funded directly by the PCC, to be victim and witness focussed.
The role will provide links and referrals to support agencies and act as a central point of contact for information for victims, witnesses and those providing support.
This will be done alongside support and recovery services provided by a commissioned partner.
A “virtual panel” of previous Lincolnshire victims of crime has been formed, and their opinions sought on the new model.
Mr Hardwick said: “Local commissioning means Lincolnshire has the infrastructure and flexibility needed to respond to local needs and challenges.
“I am committed to ensuring that Lincolnshire has the right services, in the right place and at the right time for victims of crime.
“This ensures the ongoing commitment to putting victims at the heart of Lincolnshire’s approach.”
Residents can find out more about the scheme and meet staff at a series of Lincolnshire Police and Police and Crime Commissioner summer engagement events.
One is being be held in Spalding’s Sheepmarket on Tuesday (10am to 3.30pm).
There will be an opportunity for residents to provide their thoughts on how the service can best support victims and witnesses of crime in Lincolnshire.
The event will also provide the opportunity to meet other members of the police, including the dog section and roads policing unit vehicles, senior officers and Mr Hardwick.