Bedfordshire Victim Care Services is an innovative new approach to supporting those affected by crime in Bedfordshire, putting victims at the heart of everything we do. BVCS offers free and confidential support to anyone affected by crime, whether it has been reported to the police or not. This includes victims themselves, bereaved relatives, parents or guardians of victims under 18 and members of staff where a business has been the subject of a crime.

When you report a crime to the police you will be asked a few questions to find out how you have been affected by the crime and your personal circumstances, to see if there is any additional support that you might need. We will use this information to decide the best way to support you.

We may contact you by phone or in writing. One of our skilled Victim Care Coordinators will be able to identify the help you might need and what local support is available. If needed, we can support you through any proceedings at Magistrates’ or Crown Court.

We will also talk to you about the benefits of Restorative Justice, which can give you the opportunity to tell the offender about the real impact the crime they committed has had on you.