Support for Victims of Crime

Commission for the Support of Victims of Crime

The Commission for the Support of Victims of Crime, first established by the Minister for Justice and Equality in March 2005, was re-constituted in 2008 with a further three year remit:

• to disburse funding for organisations engaged in giving support to victims of crime
• to assist in the development of strategies and policies to support victims of crime with a view to improving cohesion, consistency of service and information available to victims of crime. 

Between 2005 and 2010, the Commission has allocated close to €6 million in funding to those organisations. To ensure that the victim has a central place when dealing with crime, the commission has taken the initiative to encourage and develop inter-organisational co-operation and support between these organisations and the relevant State agencies.

Victims Charter

The Victims Charter and Guide to the Criminal Justice System describes the criminal justice system from a crime victim's point of view. It sets out your rights and entitlements to the services given by the various state agencies, and one voluntary sector organisation, working with crime victims.

Crime Victims Helpline

The Crime Victims Helpline is a national helpline service providing support and information to victims of crime and all people affected by crime. You can contact the helpline by phoning the Lo-Call number 1850 211-407 or visiting the website at www.crimevictimshelpline.ie.