A SCHEME giving crime victims instant support has been launched by Devon and Cornwall Police.

The Victim Care Unit launched on Tuesday includes referral to a wide range of support organisations with key specialisms, such as mental health.

Devon and Cornwall’s Police & Crime Commissioner, Tony Hogg, has worked closely with Chief Constable Shaun Sawyer on an innovative approach giving victims a more personal service to fit their needs.

The unit will put crime victims in touch with a number of accredited support organisations and national agencies, allowing the police to tailor the service to their needs.

Ch Con Sawyer said: “After experiencing crime people are affected in many ways, and for many of them being a victim of crime is very distressing and upsetting.

“I believe it’s extremely important to provide the most appropriate aftercare, tailored to the individual.

“We’re committed to giving victims the best advice and support, and, working with the PCC, our new, fully trained Victim Care Unit, with service providers from the voluntary and community sectors, will be at the heart of this.”

Mr Hogg said the new service is all about putting victims first, adding: “This innovative system will make sure victims get exactly the help and support they need.

“Devon and Cornwall are leading the way in creating a system that effectively connects those in need with organisations that can help them when they need it most.”

Rosie, a sexual abuse survivor said: “To be able to put the power back into victims’ lives, taken away from them through whatever’s happened, is such a magnificent step into recovery.

“This is about letting the victims choose what their priority is.”

The network of victim care providers will be supported by and accessed through a dedicated website – www.victimcaredevonand|cornwall.org.uk – giving victims a comprehensive guide to 60 accredited support organisations, links to over 100 national agencies and significant extra information.

Users will be able to navigate the site by need, crime type or geography.

Victims who do not wish to report crimes to the police can also access the website and use a separate helpline – 0300-30395473.