Victims of crime now have extra services to help access information and support available to them.

The new services were launched earlier this month and include:

• an 0800 Victims of Crime Information line,
  
• a Victims of Crime information web-page (victimsinfo.govt.nz), and
  
• newly designed ‘Victims Charter’ pamphlets/booklets and posters outlining victim’s rights.

The new services and information are part of the Justice Sector’s work to improve the status and treatment of victims particularly in the area of access to information and are some of the first initiatives resulting from the Review of Services for Victims of Crime.

Superintendent Graham Thomas, National Manager: Police Prosecution Service commends the new resources saying that they give victims, their family and whanau, greater access to information to support their involvement in the criminal justice system and about services they can access from government and non-government organisations.

Victims of Crime Information Line (0800 650 654) became operational on Thursday 25 September. The line is a central contact point for information for victims and people affected by crime. The service provides victims with information about their rights and services to help them.

A range of material has been developed outlining what level of service victims can expect from different Government agencies. A starter kit of the posters, brochures and booklets is to be sent to every police station shortly.

“I encourage staff to ensure that the resources are put in a prominent location, visible to the public,” says Graham.

The material can also be ordered online from publications@justice.govt.nz or by calling 0800 587 847. The Ministry’s resources will be part of a package police will be developing to give greater recognition to what victims can expect from police.

This work will be furthered through the recent appointment of the National Victim Services Manager, Inspector Wendy Robilliard, based in PNHQ.