Dorset PCC to hold his first Victim Forum
Monday, 14 October, 2013
Police and Crime Commissioner Martyn Underhill is to hold his first Victims Forum in Poole on Tuesday 22nd October. It will take place at St Aldhelm Parish Centre, Branksome at 10 o'clock.
The two hour session will give victims of crime, living and working in the Poole and Bournemouth areas, the opportunity to put their questions or concerns to the Commissioner. It will be followed by a Victims Surgery.
Martyn Underhill said: “Victims are at the heart of my work and I will always put them first. I want to give victims a voice so I can hear about their journey and find out how to meet their needs. I am asking those people who are victims of crime in the Poole and Bournemouth areas, to come to my forum. We need to learn from people’s experiences and raise awareness of the different kinds of help available.”
I am passionate about improving victim services. Next month, as I mark my one year anniversary, we will launch the Dorset Victim’s Bureau – one of only two in England and Wales.By next year the Bureau will grow into the first multi-agency victim’s service in the country, encompassing all of the Criminal Justice Agencies, meaning that victims will be updated and supported throughout their journey. The Bureau next year will also assist those victims who, for various reasons, do not pick up the phone to report their crime to the police.”
The Commissioner is also working on a new victim’s website for Dorset which will signpost victims to relevant partners and agencies for their particular crime, and offer advice and FAQ's.
