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Victim Support Newry urge victims of crime to ‘get help’

As the new year begins, Victim Support NI’s Newry office urges the public to be aware of the resources available to the local community.

According to Patricia McNulty, the organisation’s Newry Office Coordinator: “It is important that local people are aware of the help available if someone is a victim of crime.”

Established in the town 17 years ago, the staff and volunteers at the office have helped thousands of victims of crime in the local area. Currently there are a number of volunteers based in Newry diligently working to help local people in need.

Patricia and the other staff members also work closely with a number of local agencies and support groups to give local victims of crime the best opportunity and help available.

Speaking to Newry Times, Patricia said: “Our office and the others across Northern Ireland help people affected by any type of crime. We provide emotional support, information and practical help to victims of any crime.”

“Victims who have been injured through violent crime may be entitled to apply for criminal injury compensation. This service is free of charge within Victim Support NI and our staff have been specially trained to help.

“Anyone who has sustained a physical or mental injury as a result of a violent crime in Northern Ireland can avail of this service. It is important to act quickly, as a delay may affect your claim opportunity. By contacting our highly trained staff, Victim Support NI will be able to offer advice and guidance regarding this process.”

Patricia continued, “We also have a witness service which can offer support at both crown and magistrates court. All of our services are free and completely confidential, so there won’t be any loss through legal costs.”

Encouraging local victims to come forward and report any crime, Patricia urged that anyone who might want to avail of the services can call the charity directly. Patricia said: “Whether or not you choose to report the crime, Victim Support NI can help you to cope with the effect.”

She added: “When you contact us, a fully trained volunteer will provide tailored information on how we can assist in your individual case, by supporting and guiding you through this difficult process. Victims can meet with volunteers at our Newry Office or an agreed location.”

If you would like to contact the organisation directly, please call 028 3025 1321 or check out our website www.victimsupportni.co.uk.

Short URL: https://newrytimes.com/?p=26961

Posted by on Jan 12 2013. Filed under Community. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry

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