How we can help

Crime can impact victims in many ways – emotionally, mentally, physically, financially and practically. That’s why Victim Support Scotland is here to help.

Our support workers and volunteers are available to victims of crime and witnesses in person, over the phone and in the courts throughout Scotland. We support you no matter who you are, and no matter what the crime.

You can access our services regardless of whether you have reported the crime or not to the police. Our services are free, independent and confidential.*

The criminal justice system can be confusing, and we can provide you with practical advice and information to make this process easier. We promise you:

  • We will take the time to listen to you
  • We won’t judge you
  • We will provide you with support in whatever way best suits you
  • We will explain your rights in a way you can understand

Our trained and experienced volunteers deliver support throughout Scotland. There is a Victim Support office in every local authority area and we can support you going to court or in your own community (at home or in our offices).

*We will only alert someone else if we feel you are at risk to yourself or to others.

An image of a support worker counselling a victim of crime.

We help you to feel safer and find the strength to move forward after a crime by providing support tailored to individual needs. We can meet you at home, in our office, in the community or provide support by phone, webchat or email.

Find out more about our Victim Service.

Reporting a crime and attending court can be confusing and distressing experiences for some, but Victim Support Scotland is available in every court throughout Scotland to help you through it.

We can explain the support available to you and guide you through the criminal justice process and your rights as a witness.

Find out more about our Court Service.