True stories

A victim of crime

We helped Jez (aged 15 years) when he became of victim of assault. On the way home from football training, he was attacked and punched. He suffered a fractured cheekbone and ended up in hospital. Jez was angry and upset about what happened. His injury meant that he couldn't play football, which was his favourite sport. He was worried that time off school would affect his GCSE results and he was nervous about dealing with the police.

The Victim Support worker met with Jez and his mum. She gave them both information and practical support. This helped Jez build up his confidence after the attack. Jez said, "I think my mum was just as upset as me. I was nervous about talking to the police but the Victim Support worker talked us through what was likely to happen next".

A witness

Victim Support's Witness Service helped Matthew (aged 12 years) when he witnessed a crime being committed. He was asked to attend court and give evidence, as he had seen a group vandalising a children's playground.

Matthew visited the court before the trial so he could see what it was like. On the day of the trial, Matthew and his parents were met at the court by a Witness Service volunteer. The Witness Service volunteer answered all of Matthew's questions and explained to him what was likely to happen on the day. They all waited together in a private room until the case was called. Matthew gave his evidence to the court. He was happy to know that the Witness Service volunteer was sitting at the back of the courtroom during his evidence. Matthew was really pleased after he had given his evidence. He was thanked for being brave enough to come along. Matthew said, "I was really nervous about coming to court today but the Witness Service volunteer was really friendly and helped me a lot".

A Victim Support volunteer

Carol has worked for us for the last seven years. Like all volunteers, Carol took part in a series of training sessions before helping any victims. Her training involves listening skills, working with children and young people, and learning about the law and court system.

Carol has helped lots of young people who have experienced a wide range of crimes. For example, Amy (aged 13 years) suffered serious bullying at school and felt no one could help her. After talking to Amy, Carol visited the school, spoke to Amy's teachers and helped find ways to make things better. Carol says, "I have always been someone who likes to help people and to listen to their problems. School days should be happy days. I was pleased to be able to help Amy. Knowing that I have a made a difference to someone's life makes me feel good".

Names and other details have been changed in the stories.