Witnesses to killings to be given access to specialist victim support scheme
People who witness killings will have access to the same specialist help as victims’ families under new Government plans.
Until now, support given through the National Homicide Service has only been available to bereaved relatives.
On Thursday, Justice Secretary David Gauke (pictured) revealed it will be opened up to those who witness murder or manslaughter in London.
The scheme, run by charity Victim Support, provides emotional, practical and specialist support, helping users access legal advice, counselling and funding for court travel costs.
While the extension of the service is starting in London, the Government is considering rolling it out more widely.
Mr Gauke announced the step as he chaired the latest in a series of meetings during a week-long Government summit on serious violence.
He said: “Serious violence devastates families and communities, however they encounter it, and can fuel a continued cycle of brutal offending if the consequences are not fully addressed.
“By improving the treatment of witnesses, through enhanced support from the National Homicide Service and more proactive interventions with vulnerable young people, all those affected by serious violence can have confidence that the justice system will stand by them and ensure criminals are brought to justice.”
Diana Fawcett, chief officer at Victim Support, welcomed the move.
She said: “As well as the devastating toll that murder and manslaughter can take on the victim’s loved ones, those who witness these tragedies can be left traumatised and in need of support.”
Earlier this week, Home Secretary Sajid Javid and Prime Minister Theresa May unveiled a new “public health approach” to combat violent crime.
Under the proposals – which have been criticised by police, teachers and nurses – state bodies could be made subject to a new legal duty requiring them to have “due regard” to the prevention and tackling of serious violence.
The Government has faced intense pressure to act after a spate of fatal stabbings prompted warnings of a “national emergency”.
Copyright (c) Press Association Ltd. 2019, All Rights Reserved. Picture (c) Stefan Rousseau / PA Wire.
