An introduction to Victim Support - Wiltshire Area Office

 'Victim Support - Wiltshire Area Office' is approaching its 20th year of supporting victims and witnesses of personal crime. Since our official launch in 1988, we have offered our support to over 130,000 victims, witnesses, their friends and family in Wiltshire and the Borough of Swindon. All of our services remain free and confidential and delivered by dedicated staff and trained volunteers.

 Staff and volunteers from the Community Service are available to offer emotional support, practical help, information and assistance with compensation claims.  Support is available over the phone, or in a convenient meeting place, to any victim of crime in Wiltshire and Swindon.  Call them between 8am and 8pm on 01380 738888.

 Crime affects people in different ways. Many people feel shock, fear, anger, guilt and loss of confidence, but a whole range of reactions are common. Our staff and volunteers can help victims and their supporters cope with crime.

 A recent victim of crime said "I felt reassured that my feelings were normal.  The person I spoke to listened and understood my anxiety and helped to calm me down and cope with the situation."

 Staff and volunteers from the Witness Service support victims, witnesses, the family and supporters of witnesses and professional witnesses. The Victim Support Wiltshire Witness Service is available in Swindon Crown Court, Swindon Magistrates’ Court, Chippenham Magistrates’ Court, Salisbury Crown Court, Salisbury Magistrates’ Court and Devizes Magistrates’ Court. 

 Many witnesses feel worried about going to court, whether or not they were the victim of the crime. Trained staff and volunteers meet witnesses when they arrive, arrange alternative access to the court if needed, can explain the court procedures, provide a secure quiet room to wait in, provide appropriate support to vulnerable and intimidated witnesses, provide pre-trial visits to the court before the day and accompany a witness into the courtroom when giving evidence. Again the service is free, confidential and is independent of the police and the courts.  Call them on 01793 484040.

 Victim Support Wiltshire also offer a Rape Support Helpline on freephone 0808 800 1144 on Thursdays from 9.30am-12.30pm and 7pm – 10pm. This service is available to men and women who have been raped or sexually assaulted, or who are survivors of childhood sexual abuse or victims of domestic abuse. Information is also available for partners, friends and families who may need more information about how to help someone.

 Our services to victims of crime are co-ordinated from our central office in Devizes - 9 Prince Maurice Court, Hambleton Avenue, Devizes, Wiltshire, SN10 2RT. 

 Victim Support - here to listen