Can you spare time for victims of crime?

Victim Support Scotland says there are around 750,000 victims of crime in the country each year and many of them need support to help them through their experience.

A spokesman for the organisation said: “Crime statistics don’t tell the whole story when it comes to the experience of victims of crime. Official figures show that one in seven people in Scotland is a victim of crime each year, but behind the numbers are real people, real crimes and real victims.

“We want to recruit 70 new people to join our team of 600 skilled, trained volunteers who support those affected by any crime, whether it is reported to the police or not.

“All volunteers make a difference to real people affected by crime and many do so by providing emotional and practical support and information.”

Volunteers with Victim Support Scotland develop their skills and knowledge while they are being trained to deliver the challenging but rewarding roles the charity has available.

Just as anyone can be affected by crime, anyone can apply to be a volunteer with Victim Support Scotland.

“If people do not feel able to directly support victims or witnesses to crime there are also plenty of other ways people can help too. Skills in graphic design, fundraising, governance are just some of what VSS is looking for.

“Without volunteers – who come from a range of backgrounds – we simply could not help those who need our services. We always encourage people to call and have a chat with us about how their skills may be able to help VSS.”

Visit www.victimsupportsco.org.uk for more information.