New support for victims and witnesses of Anti Social Behaviour

A new officer is now available to give specialised support to victims and witnesses in anti-social behaviour cases, such as ASBOs and injunctions.

People involved in cases like this have previously received little support, compared to those involved in legal cases. But now Russell Jamieson is on hand to take referrals from officers and support victims, giving officers more time to work on enforcement.

He can give practical help to people taking a stand against anti-social behaviour. His role includes supporting people, particularly when they have to give evidence in court, providing a single local point of contact for victims and witnesses and making sure that those who are most in need of help receive it.

His role aims to raise people’s awareness of the services they are entitled to, including those for victims. It also aims to address people’s concerns about crime and justice.

Russell said: “Standing up to anti-social behaviour can take courage. It can be a really difficult thing to go to court and give evidence, sometimes against someone that you may have to return home and live next door to. My role is to let people in Thanet know that help is available if they are a victim, or if they witness, anti-social behaviour. There is support for them in taking cases to court and I will be with them every step of the way.”

For more information about the victim and witness support service, contact 01843 577652.