The death of someone close to you through a violent crime is a devastating and traumatic experience.

You may have feelings of shock and disbelief and feel very alone. The emotions you experience after someone you love or are close to has been murdered can be overwhelming.

There are often many questions unanswered. You may also be expected to deal with practical arrangements after the death.

Although your life will never be the same again, talking about what has happened can help.

How we can help if you are bereaved by violent crime?

Victim Support Scotland is an independent, charitable organisation providing emotional support, practical assistance and information to people affected by crime. We have staff and specially trained volunteers who can help support people bereaved and affected by murder.

Emotional Support Every person experiences bereavement differently with feelings changing from day to day. Victim Support staff and volunteers are trained to listen to your thoughts and concerns. They are also able to put you in contact with formal counselling or other more specialised support including self help-support groups who have personal experience of what you are currently going through.

Practical Support

It can be difficult to consider practical matters at this time. Victim Support can provide you with help to deal with the demands and pressures that arise. This includes accompanying you to the police station, helping you to make alternative housing arrangements and helping you liaise with other agencies, for example, your child’s school.

Victim Support can also provide you with information on the criminal justice system and how it works, for example:

• The police investigation
• The role of the pathologist
• The role of the procurator fiscal
• What will happen in court
• The media
• Claiming criminal injuries compensation

At Court

Victim Support has trained staff and volunteers who are experienced in the court system. They provide emotional support at court and can provide information about the legal process, what will happen on the day and where possible arrange a pre-court visit. Victim Support will also try to:

• Arrange a private entrance for you to arrive at court
• Find somewhere private for you to wait for the hearing
• Reserve special seating in court for you

Children

It is often difficult to know how much to tell a child about the murder of a loved one or to decide whether they should go to the funeral or not.

Victim Support volunteers who have undergone training in supporting people bereaved through murder have been specifically trained to work with parents/guardians of children who have been bereaved in this way. They can help you support your children.

How can I contact Victim Support for help?

You can contact Victim Support at any time, immediately after the crime or later.

The Police Family Liaison Officer dealing with your case can put you in touch with your local Victim Support Office. The Police Officer can ring for you or provide you with the number to call directly yourself.

OR

You can call the numbers below:

To find your nearest Victim Support Service phone Victim Support’s local call number 0845 603 9213 (Mon-Fri 9am-4.30pm)

Victim Support UK National Helpline 0845 30 30 900 (9am-9pm Monday to Friday) (9am-7pm Weekends) (9am-5pm bank Holidays)

Victim Support is free and confidential. Volunteers can talk to you on the phone, visit you in your own home or they can arrange to meet you elsewhere.