Published date:
The Commissioner Designate for Victims of Crime is deeply concerned to learn of the serious allegations against a former serving police officer being investigated by the Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland. While welcoming the investigation, the Commissioner’s first concern is always for victims and public confidence more broadly in the criminal justice system.
“I appreciate that people will be shocked and alarmed to hear this news today. I would encourage anyone who thinks they may have been a victim to contact the Police Ombudsman’s Office on 028 9082 8600, or by email on info@policeombudsman.org.
I am also keenly aware that stories like this in the public domain can be triggering for anyone who has been a victim of any kind of sexual violence or abuse. If you have been affected by this story, please know that you do not have to suffer in silence. There are a range of independent support organisations who are there to listen, to support and to get you any help you may need.”
Support agencies include:
The Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline is open to all men and women affected by domestic or sexual violence. You can contact the helpline 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Tel: 0808 802 1414, Email: help@dsahelpline.org www.dsahelpline.org
Nexus provides a range of therapeutic interventions to meet needs of individuals who have been impacted by sexual abuse and abusive relationships on a person-centred basis, including counselling for anyone impacted by sexual abuse. Tel: 028 9032 6803 / Get Support - Nexus NI
Victim Support NI provides services which are trauma-informed, confidential, safe and free for anyone who has experienced crime in NI. These include Sexual Offences Legal Advisors (SOLAs) who are qualified lawyers who can offer free legal advice and support to adult victims of serious sexual offences. Tel: 028 9013 0405, Email (Belfast office): belfast@victimsupportni.org.uk / Email (Foyle Office): foyle@victimsupportni.org.uk www.victimsupportni.com
Women’s Aid NI is the lead voluntary organisation in Northern Ireland addressing domestic abuse (including sexual abuse) and providing services for women and children. Find a local group in your area here: Women’s Aid Federation Northern Ireland
The Men’s Advisory Project provides counselling services for men experiencing domestic abuse. They can be contacted at Belfast on 028 9024 1929, or Foyle in 028 7116 0001. www.mapni.co.uk
Lifeline is a free crisis helpline for people in distress or despair and for those who may be worried about someone else. Lifeline is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year. Tel: 0808 808 8000. www.lifelinehelpline.info