Calls to Crime Victims Helpline up 60% so far this year

The Crime Victims Helpline has reported a 60% increase in calls during the first three months of this year.

The service, which offers support to people who fall victim to crime, says it dealt with almost 500 calls between January and March.

Spokesperson Maeve Ryan says the number of calls is increasing on a monthly basis, mainly due to increased awareness of the service on offer.