Government signals new funding to support victims of terrorism

Posted to News on Tuesday, May 25, 2021 Share:

FOUR ORGANISATIONS who provide practical and emotional support to those affected by terror attacks will receive a share of £500,000 set aside by the Home Office. Cruse Bereavement Care, the Peace Foundation, the South London and Maudsley NHS Trust and Victim Support will each receive £125,000 to ensure a range of victims’ needs are supported. This builds upon the £500,000 of funding originally awarded to these organisations last year.

Since these services were launched in October last year, they’ve provided vital support to those affected by terror attacks. The additional funding announced by Government will mean that victims can continue to access support, including a 24/7 national Contact Centre and caseworker support, mental health and bereavement services and facilitated peer support.

The Home Office recognises a victim as anyone who has suffered harm, including those who have been injured by, been a witness to, been bereaved, responded to or otherwise affected by a terrorist attack. These services will support those affected by domestic and overseas terrorist attacks in addition to their family members.

Range of support

Home Secretary Priti Patel explained: “Victims can be affected by terrorist attacks in more ways than many of us could ever imagine. This funding extension ensures those affected by a terrorist attack in the UK or abroad can access the range of support they need and deserve.”

Dame Vera Baird QC, the Victims’ Commissioner for England and Wales, added: “Terror attacks can have a profound and life-changing impact on victims and their families. The victims can often have complex needs, which include long-term counselling and support. We need to make sure that, when the TV cameras disappear, victims and survivors receive the right support they need to rebuild their lives and recover from their injuries.”

Baird went on to state: “I welcome this extension of Home Office funding, which will help to strengthen the range of specialist support available for victims and survivors of terror.”

Outreach and assessment

Cruse Bereavement Care provide bereavement support for victims not eligible for support under the Homicide Service, while the South London and Maudsley NHS Trust’s service focuses on outreach, screening and (where indicated) assessment and onwards referrals for psychological treatments.

Victim Support runs a 24/7 national Contact Centre to provide victims with consistent and easily accessible support, while the Peace Foundation facilitates a long-term peer support network for victims of terrorism.

The Home Secretary has also committed to reviewing the wider support package available to the victims of terrorism.