Welcome to our new Web site! This is where you can learn more about us. And how you can help us help the community. Volunteers are important to us, and we value your time and support. There is a great demand for help and support for Victims of Crime in the Sandwell area.
Victim Support needs people from all walks of life to train as volunteers. We look for men and women who are good listeners, who can gain the confidence and trust of the victims they help.
While there are many common reactions to crime, everyones
experience is unique and our volunteers need to understand
and respect individual needs, backgrounds and cultures.
Anyone over 18 can volunteer -young people are very much
needed in Victim Support.
All Victim Support volunteers complete an intial training course, run locally, which prepares them for their work.
Topics include the effects of crime, communication skills
and preparation for supporting victims in different settings.
Further training is given in court procedures, compensation for victims and the effects of particular crimes. Although Victim Support is staffed for the most part by volunteers, we aim for the highest professional standards and operate within a code of practice which helps us acheive these. We attach a great importance to training and ensure that all our volunteers are properly equipped to help victims to these standards.
Initially w expect you to give a few hours a week to training, usually on a daytime or evening. Then we ask you to give Two or Three hours a week to support work - home visits, office appointments, telephone support or support at court. The Co-ordinator will help you decide which suits you best. You'll also attend regular support and information meetings with other volunteers, as well as getting support directly from the Co-ordinator.
The essence of Victim support is giving personal help to people in need; for most (volunteers) this is the principal reward. You will also receive training and support, meet new people and deal with situations you have never experienced before. Our training is designed to help you learn about yourself as well as others, and you may find that you develop skills and qualities you never knew you possessed. You will not be paid, but we will cover your expenses as a volunteer, including travel. There is real satisfaction to be had in being a volunteer with Victim Support.
For further information please visit
