VICTIMS of crime and antisocial behaviour across Avon and Somerset now have access to enhanced, tailored support services.
I recently held a launch event to showcase a comprehensive suite of services, designed with victims of crime, to help them recover from its impacts.
It highlighted the support offered by Safe Link Plus, Young Victims Service, Avon and Somerset Victim Services, and Unseen, all of which provide holistic support ranging from advocacy and emotional care to practical advice, specialist interventions, and restorative justice.
For many, the aftermath of crime is not just about what happened but about the ongoing struggle to regain a sense of safety and stability.
In these moments, the presence of skilled, compassionate professionals can make all the difference.
I’ve seen this first-hand since being elected, and it is truly inspiring.
That is why ensuring victims receive the help they need, when they need it, is a core priority in my Police and Crime Plan.
The launch event brought together service providers, volunteers, and community members to celebrate the recommissioned services. It featured workshops, survivor contributions, and addresses from key figures, including Baroness Helen Newlove, Victims’ Commissioner for England and Wales.
One of the most poignant moments of the day was the performance of Ghosts, a song written and performed by Georgie, a survivor supported by Safe Link. Her deeply moving lyrics and beautiful vocals made a big impression on everyone in the room.
The event also celebrated the collaborative effort behind the services being launched, with a wide range of providers like One25, Resolve West, Victim Support, The Lighthouse, Stand Against Racism & Inequality, and more.
These services, supported by the OPCC, NHS England, Bristol City Council, Avon and Somerset Police, and the Ministry of Justice, reflect a long-term dedication to providing independent and effective support for victim-survivors of crime and antisocial behaviour.
To find out more about support services, visit tinyurl.com/5akvrvaa.
My role is to be the bridge between the community and Avon and Somerset Police.
To ensure I hear all your voices, I make it a priority to meet local communities, whether that’s at public forums, visiting local businesses, or engaging with community organisations.
Through my visits, I’ve seen the incredible work being undertaken across the Avon and Somerset force area: innovative projects tackling crime, organisations supporting victims, working with young people to build their futures and partnership working to make neighbourhoods safer.
I recently had the pleasure to visit the Wheels Project, where I saw young people in action learning motor vehicle studies.
The project supports young people between 14-18 years of age, struggling in education or with specialist educational needs from Bath, Bristol and South Gloucestershire.
They run small groups of four, providing young people with practical functional skills, teamwork, communication skills and understanding of safety and risk issues.
Reducing serious youth violence is a priority in my Police and Crime Plan.
The Wheels Project has been working with the South Gloucestershire Violence Reduction Partnership (VRP) for several years.
To find out more about my role, share concerns over policing or join one of my upcoming public forums, visit my website www.avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk.