Press Release
NEW SERVICE SOLVES PROBLEMS FOR VICTIMS OF CRIME
6th March 2006
A new project to help victims of crime to feel safer, is now available across North Liverpool, following its successful launch in the Kirkdale ward.
The 'Safe n' Sound' project was launched by the Community Justice Centre, North Liverpool as part of Victim and Witness Month in January. It will see Community Support Officers visiting victims of crime, offering practical help on issues ranging from personal and home security, and fire safety, to advice on legal matters and assistance with housing problems.
The service is now available in the neighbourhoods of Anfield, Breckfield, the Eldonian Village, Everton, Kirkdale, Vauxhall and Walton.
Joan Porter, community engagement officer for the Community Justice Centre said: One of our main aims is to manage and improve the personal safety of the North Liverpool community.
Safe n' Sound' is a unique initiative which helps to tackle the problems that victims of crime may be facing, by linking the services offered by the centre with those of other partners, such as Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, who for instance can carry out fire safety risk assessments. Through links with organisations such as Trading Standards, the Community Support Officers will also be able to advise residents about issues such as doorstep selling.
The service operates from the Community Justice Centre, North Liverpool, which is based on Boundary Street, Kirkdale. As well as housing a courtroom that deals with crimes committed in the North Liverpool area, the centre houses a range of services, including help with legal matters, housing advice, drug and alcohol support and assistance with anti-social behaviour issues. These services are available to victims of crime, witnesses and offenders as well as local residents.
Safe n' Sound sees these services link with a number of other off-site agencies including Merseytravel, Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service and Trading Standards, to create a comprehensive package of support.
Marie Wheldon, senior manager, Victim Support said: Victim Support and the Witness Service Merseyside welcome this opportunity to work in partnership with the Community Justice Centre and other agencies to raise victim's issues within the community and improve our services for victims in North Liverpool.
Officers, who are based at the Community Justice Centre, visit the individual concerned and take a personal interest in each case, providing tailored advice and support. They make a full assessment of the individual's circumstances and a package of support is developed. Where necessary they can provide personal attack alarms or property marking equipment.
Victims of crime in the North Liverpool area seeking support or advice can contact the Community Justice Centre team on 0151 298 3600.
Notes to Editors
The Community Justice Centre, North Liverpool, is a pioneering initiative aimed at bringing justice closer to the community. It is the first of its kind in England and Wales. The centre, based on Boundary Street, Kirkdale, works with local residents to tackle crimes and anti-social behaviour, which affects the quality of life of residents in the local authority wards of Anfield, County, Everton and Kirkdale. It provides access to a range of support services for those living and working in the area as well as enabling residents to identify their priorities for the work of the centre and the services it provides.