Justice Secretary visits Victim Support Ashford to see how charity helps victims of crime
Published: 05 October 2012
- Date:
- 03 October 2012
Justice Secretary Chris Grayling MP with staff at Victim Support in Ashford. Photo: Ashford Herald
The new Justice Secretary Chris Grayling MP visited Victim Support's offices on Wednesday (3 October) in Ashford to find out how we help victims and witnesses of crime. The local Conservative Party police and crime commissioner (PCC) candidate Craig Mackinlay also attended.
Chris Grayling, MP for Epsom and Ewell, met Victim Support volunteers and staff. He said: "I am delighted that Craig Mackinlay and I had the chance to visit Victim Support in Kent today.
"I have huge admiration for the volunteers in Victim Support. Being a victim of crime is a horrible experience and their work helps victims come to terms with what has happened and move on with their lives."
Adam Pemberton, Victim Support's Assistant Chief Executive welcomed the Minister. He said: "We are delighted that the new Justice Secretary came to our Kent office to see what we do and the kind of help we give to victims of crime.
"Being a victim can be a traumatic experience and last year we helped 27,000 people in Kent, and 1 million people across the country, cope and recover after a crime.
"We gave them emotional support and practical help with things like filling out insurance claims or helping to secure their homes after a burglary. This visit shows that Mr Grayling recognises the needs of victims and we hope he will work with us to ensure that they remain a priority."
Craig Mackinlay, PCC candidate for Kent said: "I am delighted to have signed Victim Support's five pledges for victims. If elected as police and crime commissioner on 15 November I look forward to working closely with Victim Support in Kent and building a close relationship with them to support all victims of crime."