'Ambitious agenda' to help victims and witnesses

Formal rights for crime victims and improving resources for those who have suffered from financial fraud are part of a charity's plans for the next few years.

The Guernsey Victim Support & Witness Service (VS&WS) has unveiled its strategic plan until 2029 with the aim of enhancing services it offers across the bailiwick.

It said it would commit to five keys areas of improvement, which included advocating a "bill of rights" for victims in Guernsey, specialist child support and increasing help available to victims of financial scams.

The charity added it would also work on establishing a compensation scheme for victims of crime and expand its services to help victims of sexual abuse.

VS&WS said crime had become "increasingly complex" across Guernsey, with a rise in financial fraud and cyber-related incidents.

Chairman Peter Harwood said: "This plan is an ambitious agenda, designed to ensure that victims and witnesses remain at the very heart of Guernsey's justice system.

"Despite ongoing financial pressures, we are determined to adapt and deliver the high-standard, compassionate support our community relies on."

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