VSS moves to increase support by phone and webchat to reduce risk of COVID-19

18 March, 2020

Following the latest advice from both the UK and Scottish Governments, Victim Support Scotland is putting additional resources into providing support for people affected by crime through its free helpline and webchat service from 8am – 8pm, Monday to Friday.

To minimise the spread of COVID-19 and protect people affected by crime, volunteers and staff, offices will unfortunately be temporarily closed to the public.

Additionally, the Scottish Courts and Tribunal Service has made the decision not to start any new criminal jury trials. This will be difficult for victims and witnesses waiting for their cases to go to court, and Victim Support Scotland will be available to offer support over the phone or via webchat.

Kate Wallace, CEO of Victim Support Scotland, comments:

“We realise this is a difficult time for anyone affected by crime and understand they may feel isolated when they need help the most.

“I want to reassure victims and witnesses that we are doing everything possible to continue our support to people affected by crime. We will still be supporting people through our helpline and webchat services while taking the necessary measures to slow the spread of COVID-19.

“We will provide updates as regularly as possible as the situation continues to develop and want to ensure everyone knows that whoever you are, whatever the crime, we are here to help.”

Anyone affected by crime can call our helpline on 0800 160 1985 or access our webchat service through www.victimsupport.scot for free and confidential support. Both services are available from 8am – 8pm, Monday to Friday while our website contains a variety of in-depth information for people affected by crime.

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