Looking after young victims of crime

PEOPLE in Warrington are being encouraged to look out for young victims of crime.
Being a victim or even just a witness of crime can be a traumatic experience for a young person which can have an impact for years to come.
So Dominic Rogers, Cheshire’s youth ambassador, is encouraging everyone to look out for and support young victims and witnesses, in the aftermath of their experiences.
He said: “One of my priorities is protecting vulnerable people. Young people affected by crime fall into this category. I want to ensure that these vulnerable people have their voices heard and their needs met.
“Between April 2013 and March 2014 there were over 2,500 victims of crime under the age of 18. Crime can affect young people in different ways, and it’s vital that they get the help and support they need from family members, friends, the police, schools and other agencies.”
Over the last year, young victims of crime have been subjected to hate crime, robbery and have been involved in road traffic collisions among others. However, many more young people could be witnesses of crime or live with family members who have been affected by crime.
Dominic added: “Young people sometimes struggle to ask for help and often behavioural changes are one of the first indicators that something is wrong.
“That’s why I’m encouraging everyone to keep an eye on young people in our communities and point them in the right direction if they need help.”
For information on support services for young people visit www.cheshire-pcc.gov.uk/victims