Bereaved as a Result of Crime
Losing someone you know, or love through the act of a crime can be overwhelming and extremely difficult to come to terms with.
You may be experiencing a wide range of feelings, including disbelief, despair and anger, that can impact in a broad range of short and longer-term emotional and psychological needs, which can also differ greatly from person to person.
For many, this can lead to a feeling of self isolation and separation from your family, friends, community and wider society. You may also be questioning why it’s happened to you or someone you love, and feel there has been a mistake.
It is completely natural to feel in shock and denial. It’s important to know that everyone deals with trauma and loss in a different way. If you have been affected by this type of crime, and need support or advice; please get in touch.
Other Factors
Police investigations
A death through murder or manslaughter will often result in police investigations, a post mortem, trials and court attendance. You may feel frightened and frustrated by what seems like a never-ending cycle of procedures.
Inquests
An inquest is a special investigation held if it’s not clear how or why someone died, or if their death was ‘unnatural’. There will often be an inquest after a violent death.
Press and community interest
There is often media attention following a violent crime or murder, and the person who has died can become “public property”. This is a difficult and often frustrating experience for people who are trying to grieve in private.
Contacting Us
If you report a crime to Staffordshire Police, they will ask you if you are happy for your details to be passed on to the Staffordshire Victim Gateway and Restorative Justice Service. We will automatically receive your contact information and a brief overview of your experience and the crime, if you don’t specify to Staffordshire Police that you don’t want us to make contact with you. If you initially opted out of the service, you can self-refer at any time.
We can provide you with advice, information & emotional and practical support. We can liaise and advocate on your behalf, and introduce and support you to specialist services, who can help you gain the relevant support that can help in your recovery. We will be with you every step of the way. Our support is free and confidential, regardless of whether you have reported a crime or incident to the police, we are here to support you.
Crime Prevention Information
Additionally, it may also be useful for you to have advice on crime prevention that may help you to protect yourself in the future. You can find lots of useful information on local crime prevention by clicking here:
https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/