Wiltshire police create specialist team to support victims and witnesses

The Victims’ Commissioner for England and Wales, Baroness Newlove, has welcomed the creation by Wiltshire Police of a specialist team to support victims and witnesses.

Horizon Victim and Witness Care was launched on Tuesday 24 March at a ceremony held at Force headquarters in Devizes.

The team is jointly funded by Wiltshire Police and Angus Macpherson, Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon.

The aim is to ensure that victims of crime benefit from the best possible support, from their first contact with Wiltshire Police through to the end of the criminal justice process.

Baroness Newlove had been due to speak to an invited audience at the launch, but was unable to attend because of flu. She was represented by Claire Wiggins, chief executive of the Victims’ Commissioner’s office who read her words.

The Baroness said: “The criminal justice system can be a frightening and confusing place for victims. That is why it is crucial that they are treated with dignity and respect, receive the best possible support and regular updates on what is happening to them – all in a joined up and compassionate way.

“I have always been clear that there needs to be better co-ordination of care for victims across the country.

“That is why I am very encouraged to see the efforts of Wiltshire Police and PCC Angus Macpherson to provide victims with improved and more integrated support throughout their difficult journey.”

Baroness Newlove has campaigned tirelessly for victims since the murder of her husband Garry in 2007. She was given a peerage in 2010 and, In 2012, was appointed the Victims’ Commissioner for England and Wales.

Chief Constable Pat Geenty said: “The launch of Horizon Victim and Witness Care further underpins our commitment to placing victims and witnesses at the very heart of the criminal justice process, a key priority within the Commissioner’s Police and Crime Plan.

“This is a crucial step forwards and this team of specially-trained staff will deliver a vitally important service for victims and witnesses of crime.”

Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon, Angus Macpherson, said: “ When I decided to stand for election, I was determined that one of the most important things I wanted to achieve  during my time in office would be to put the victims of crime centre stage, rather than waiting nervously in the wings for justice to be done.

“The creation of Horizon, with new members of staff being recruited, is a significant investment made at a time when we have already made savings in many areas and need to make additional savings over the next three years. This investment demonstrates our commitment to victims.”

Michelle Nott, Horizon manager, said: “I am really excited to be managing Horizon with its 13 victim and witness care officers. The focus now, more than ever, is on putting our victims’ and witnesses’ needs first to help them to cope and recover from being a victim of crime.

“The criminal justice process can be a daunting experience and cases often collapse or do not get to court because victims and witnesses are unwilling to give evidence.

“By offering a greater level of support and keeping the person concerned informed, ultimately the team will encourage attendance at court and assist people through the criminal justice system.

“The new team, which is based at Force headquarters, has completed an intensive four week training programme with courses such as basic law, effective conversations and more.  In addition presentations have been delivered by various guests, who are really keen to share and talk about their services and how they link with Horizon.  Staff have also visited local courts and met Judge Timothy Mousley QC.”

Among those invited to the launch were the High Sheriff of Wiltshire, Lady Gooch; Judge Timothy Mousley QC, Wiltshire Council leader Jane Scott, Swindon Borough Council chief executive Gavin Jones, Erlestoke Prison governor Steve Hodson and Swindon Women’s Aid director Olwen Kelly.

For more about Horizon visit: www.wiltshire.police.uk/horizon

Pictured above: Claire Higgins, chief executive of the Victims' Commissioner's Office speaking at the event at Wiltshire Police HQ in Devizes.