West Midlands victim support project first in the country

The West Midlands Victims Commission aims to improve the way victims of crime are helped by police by providing support, information and specialist help.

Experts from across the voluntary and community sectors have been brought together to inform, advise and make recommendations to the PCC about how this help can be achieved.

The commission was launched by West Midlands police and crime commissioner David Jamieson, who praised its innovation.

He said: "This shows that we are leading the way on victims' services.

"No other PCC has set-up a commission expressly to do this job like we have in the West Midlands.

"I want there to be as few victims of crime as possible, but when crimes do take place and victims are harmed, making sure that they get the best possible support is the priority.

"That is why we have brought together experts from across different areas and sectors to inform and recommend services to myself.

"Standing up for victims across an area as large and diverse as the West Midlands is a difficult task.

"We will be clear about the outcomes we expect for victims and ensure that we get the most from the resources available."

Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Yvonne Mosquito said: "Delivering a comprehensive service to victims across a large and diverse area like ours is challenging.

"We need to make sure that services meet the needs of victims from different boroughs, and also different cultures."