Victim Support is the national independent charity for people affected by crime.   It provides a free and confidential service, whether or not a crime has been reported and regardless of when it happened.   Trained staff and volunteers at affiliated local charities offer information, support and practical help to victims, witnesses, their families and friends.   Victim Support provides the Witness Service, based in every criminal court in England and Wales, to offer assistance before, during and after a trial.   The national helpline, Victim Supportline, (0845 30 30 900) provides information, support and referral to local services. Victim Support works to increase awareness of the effects of crime and to achieve greater recognition of victims' and witnesses' rights.   The organisation receives funding from the Home Office but welcomes corporate donations and sponsorship.

Victims of most crimes are referred to Victim Support automatically by the police.   However, people affected by crimes which take place on retail premises are not always referred through this process.   If you are a retailer and you or your staff, family or customers have been affected by a crime Victim Support is here to help. You can contact the Victim Supportline on the number above. The line is open from 9.00am-9.00pm on weekdays, 9.00am-7.00pm weekends and 9.00am-5.00pm on bank holidays.   You can also call your local Victim Support branch, whose number will be in the phone book.   For more information about the work of Victim Support and our services visit our website at: www.victimsupport.org.uk

Victim Support WorkForce Consultancy and Training

We also offer commercial consultancy and training services to companies whose staff are at risk from violence in the workplace.   For more information about how we could help your company visit our website at: www.vsworkforce.co.uk