Warwickshire victims of crime get 24/7 support online via Live Chat service

AN online support service for victims of crime in Warwickshire has been rolled out 24 hours a day, seven days a week by Victim Support.

The independent charity, whose work with victims in Warwickshire is funded by Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Seccombe, says the Live Chat service is designed to provide a safe space for people to talk openly about their experience of crime and get the help and support they need.

The text-based service is aimed at helping those who might find it difficult to access support over the phone or in person. Live Chat is free, confidential and staffed by trained supporters, who offer emotional and practical support tailored to each person’s needs.

Anyone who has been affected by a crime in Warwickshire – whether or not it has been reported to the police – can use the service at https://www.victimsupport.org.uk/help-and-support/get-help/support-near-you/live-chat.

Melina Hancox, Contract Manager for Victim Support in Warwickshire, said: “Extending the existing Live Chat service to provide 24/7 support is a really significant step forward to ensuring we can support victims of crime in Warwickshire in ever greater numbers. It’s important that our service reflects the way in which people use their smartphones, tablets and computers at all times of the day.

“The Live Chat facility also helps remove some of the barriers some victims may face in getting help – particularly those who cannot or do not wish to use the other ways to get in touch with us.”

Victim Support continues to offer telephone support alongside the Live Chat facility. If you’ve been affected by crime, call your local victim care team in Warwickshire on 01926 682 693. Lines are open 8am-8pm Monday to Friday, and 9am-5pm on Saturdays. If you need support outside of Victim Support’s open hours, call the Supportline for free on 08 08 16 89 111.