New service for homophobic hate crime victims in Wales
A partnership between Victim Support and Stonewall Cymru has launched a new service to help victims of homophobic and transphobic hate crimes.
The service has received £50,000 funding from the Equality and Human Rights Commission, which Victim Support is using to train staff and volunteers in offering emotional support and practical help to gay and trans people.
This will include advice on personal safety, how to deal with police and the Prosecution Service and support for victims and witnesses during trials.
Gaynor McKeown, Victim Support’s regional manager for Wales, said that support would be tailored to victims’ individual needs.
She said: “With more staff and volunteers we will now be able to give a more robust service to victims and witnesses of homophobic and transphobic crimes.
“It’s essential that all victims have someone they can turn to for support, someone who will understand the issues and challenges they may face. Victims and witnesses need easily accessible help and support to suit their needs – that’s why we’ve set up this new service.”
Jenny Porter, community liaison officer at Stonewall Cymru, said: “We at Stonewall Cymru urge victims of homophobic and other hate crimes to take up this offer from Victim Support, receiving focused support and information at such a critical time can make a huge difference to coping with the experience.”
Victims of homophobic or transphobic crime can call the helpline on 0845 6 121 900.
