‘Live chat’ offers victims of crime real-time support

Independent charity Victim Support has launched a new online ‘live chat’ service for victims of crime in Kent who may find it difficult to access support over the phone or in person. The text-based live chat service offers a safe online space for people to talk openly about their experience of crime, providing anonymity and a quick response. Live chat users will be able to have a real-time conversation with trained support workers via the website and will receive emotional support and practical help tailored to their needs. The service is open to anyone who has been affected by crime and lives in Kent, whether or not the crime has been reported to the police. The new service, which runs in addition to the services currently offered by the charity, is being funded by Kent’s police and crime commissioner Matthew Scott. “It is paramount that victims receive swift and effective help and support, but sometimes it may not be possible or convenient for a victim to seek that help and support with a phone call,” said Mr Scott. “This is particularly true of vulnerable victims and those experiencing coercive or controlling abuse. “What they need is a fast, convenient and discrete way to seek help and so I’m delighted that victims in Kent can now access help from Victim Support’s live chat service.” David Naylor, contract manager for Victim Support in Kent, added: “Our new live chat service gives victims of crime another way of contacting us in a manner which they feel most comfortable. Being able to use a smartphone, tablet or computer to reach us will break down a barrier that may have stopped people taking the first step to accessing our service in the past.” Mr Scott said victims who choose to access help this way will still be getting a quality service from trained support workers and he hopes many who have been unable to access help are now more able to do so.