Crime victims helpline extended as calls soar

A helpline for crime victims has extended its service because of a huge jump in calls, its operators said today.

The telephone service will open for almost ten hours more every week after a 60% hike in contact from victims.

Maeve Ryan, co-ordinator of Crime Victims Helpline, said the extended service was directly linked to the increased demand.

“In the first quarter of 2007 we had a 60% increase in the number of calls received and this trend continued throughout the year,” she said.

The helpline, which used to run for six hours every weekday, will now operate a special extra extended service on Mondays as well opening for business on Saturday.

Victims can contact volunteers from 10am to 7:30pm every Monday, between 10am and 5pm from Tuesday to Friday and from 2pm to 4pm on Saturdays.

Ms Ryan said the helpline was there for people feeling isolated, anxious, angry, sad, nervous and afraid as a result of a crime.

Volunteers give emotional support on the telephone and answer questions about the justice system or information on local services.

“We believe there are many people out there affected by crime who would welcome assistance – and hopefully they will make contact with us,” she said.

“There are many people who could benefit from having some practical information but may be hesitant to make contact with services, because they don’t know where to start.

“Volunteers on the helpline are able to assist victims of crime in taking the first step in telling their story and finding out where further assistance is available for them.”