Victim Support, the country’s first charity for victims of crime, celebrated its 50^th anniversary with a special event in Parliament, showcasing its services and paying tribute to the staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to deliver vital support.

The reception was sponsored by Sarah Champion MP and featured a speech from the Minister for Victims and Violence against Women and Girls, Alex Davies-Jones MP.

She was joined by a host of other Parliamentarians, showing their support for the organisation and championing much needed help for victims.

Victim Support is an independent charity, dedicated to helping people affected by crime and traumatic incidents in England and Wales.

Founded in Bristol in 1974 by a group of volunteers, Victim Support, known then as the Bristol Victim Support Scheme, was the country’s first charity for victims of crime.

Today, the organisation delivers in depth support to 140,000 people every year, offering support across a vast range of crime types including domestic abuse, sexual violence, fraud and hate crime, as well as delivering support to families bereaved by murder or manslaughter through its flagship National Homicide Service.

Speaking at the event, the Victims and VAWG Minister, Alex Davies-Jones MP, said:

“It’s an honour to celebrate 50 remarkable years of Victim Support today alongside its incredible staff.

“From the National Homicide Service to My Support Space, their vital work is invaluable in helping victims and families seek the justice they deserve. I thank you for ensuring that every victim has somewhere to turn, and a chance to rebuild their lives.”

Guests also heard from victim-survivors of domestic abuse and sexual violence about the impact of violent crime and the difference the charity’s specialist support made in their darkest moments.

Laura, a victim-survivor of domestic abuse, told guests about how her Victim Support caseworker helped her, after her ex-partner was arrested:

“She was amazing. Straight away she knew what I was talking about and how to help. She knew lots of stuff and was very understanding. But more than this she helped rebuild my confidence which was at rock bottom at that point.

“She chased up stuff for me to do with the Crown Prosecution Service and the police and we spoke about what was ahead and how I was feeling. She prepped me and helped me feel better about the trial. It really felt like she had my back.

“I would recommend Victim Support to anyone who has been a victim of crime.”

Victim Support’s services are free and confidential – support is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, regardless of whether people have reported the crime to the police or when it occurred.

Katie Kempen, Chief Executive at Victim Support, said:

“It was an honour to welcome the Minister for Victims and Violence Against Women and Girls, MPs and colleagues from across the sector, also working to drive change and improve the lives of people affected by crime.

“It is truly inspiring to reflect on the many millions of victims we have helped across the course of 50 years. We look forward to continuing this legacy and providing vital, life changing support to anyone who has been the victim of crime.”

Sarah Champion MP said:

“As an MP, I have worked closely with Victim Support over the years to change legislation and practice to make sure victims and survivors receive the support and resources they deserve.”