New hub to help victims of crime in Lancashire

It will mean help is available to anyone who needs it, regardless of the nature of the crime or whether it was reported to police.

A hub is being set up in Lancashire that will be run by national charity Victim Support.

Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw announced the change after he took over responsibility for providing the service locally.

He said: “My commitment to people who have been a victim of crime however small, is simple – their needs are the most important thing, and they need to have a voice.

“I am confident Victim Support will offer an excellent service on my behalf, and crucially I have asked them to move their staff to Preston – rather than their current Manchester location – to ensure they are solely focussed on Lancashire’s residents and their needs.

“This funding coming directly to Lancashire is a brilliant opportunity to improve what is offered to our victims, and I am committed to making sure that happens.”

Victim Support, which has been awarded a 12-month contract, will make contact with people referred to them by the police, although victims will be able to contact them for help at a later date if needed.