A NEW service has been launched to help victims of crime in North Yorkshire.

Supporting Victims North Yorkshire is a dedicated phone service staffed by trained victim care coordinators who can refer callers to other services specialising in sexual or domestic abuse.

Referrals to the service will mostly come from North Yorkshire Police or other public agencies, but the public can contact them directly, even if they have chosen not to speak to police.

There is also a website which directs people who are looking for advice on a range of issues, including those who have been a victim of crime and want help, people who are going to court as a witness, and victims who want an update on their crime.

It also offers practical information, and advice for people feeling confused. Julia Mulligan, police and crime commissioner, arranged funding for the service, which launched this week.

She said: “Being a victim of crime can be a difficult thing to deal with, and whilst some people are able to cope without help, others need some specialist support.

“I have launched this service for people living in North Yorkshire because I want to make sure that we do everything we can to help victims of crime to recover and get on with their lives. I hope that anyone who needs the service will come forward to take advantage of the support available.”

Chief Constable of North Yorkshire Police, Dave Jones, said: “As a police service, we try to put the victim at the heart of everything we do, so we welcome the additional help that Supporting Victims will provide to those who have suffered as the result of a criminal offence.

“From today our officers will be actively identifying people who might benefit from Supporting Victims, and encouraging them to make full use of the new service.”

To find out more, or to seek support, phone 01904 669276, email help@supportingvictims.org or go to supportingvictims.org

Crimes should still be reported on 101 or 999 in an emergency.