Jane joins the team!

The psychology graduate, who is employed by Hartlepool Borough Council, has re-located from Cumbria to take up the role.

She offers a range of free, confidential and independent emotional support and practical help to victims and their families.

“They may have been victims of crime, anti-social behaviour and/or hate, and I want them to be reassured that they have someone they can talk to about their experiences in complete confidence.

“I am able to provide them with information on court procedures should they be required to give evidence, I can help them in their dealings with other organisations and I can advise on compensation and insurance claims,” said Jane who has previous experience of volunteering for Victim Support.

New Victim Services Officer Jane Munden

She also offers a range of free crime prevention information, advice and support to try to help prevent residents becoming victims of crime in the first place.

“I will do a home safety visit before advising what crime prevention devices need installing to improve the security of a property,” she added.

Jane accepts referrals from a range of organisations, including the police, fire brigade and council departments, but people can also self-refer. She can be contacted on (01429) 523100 or on community.safety@hartlepool.gov.uk

People will be able to meet her at a series of informal community safety drop-in events to be held in the Council’s Community Hub Central in York Road on February 18th and 25th and March 4th and 18th from 11.30am-1.30pm.

The Hartlepool Community Safety Team which brings together staff from Hartlepool Borough Council, Cleveland Police and Cleveland Fire Brigade under one roof at Hartlepool Police Station in Avenue Road, was set up 12 months ago with the aim of providing a more co-ordinated and effective response to crime and anti-social behaviour in Hartlepool.