The new hub has been created after a Victim Needs Assessment carried out by PCC Emily Spurrell highlighted areas where improvements could be made to provision.

A new hub designed to better support victims of crime has opened on Merseyside, ahead of an official launch set for next month.

This service was authorised by Merseyside Police and Crime Commissioner Emily Spurrell, who decided earlier this year to make changes to the way the Victim Care Merseyside (VCM) service is delivered.

Previous long-term provider Victim Support will no longer be involved, as PCC Spurrell confirmed that the changes have "taken place at the natural end of their contract". However, all of the charity's local staff have moved over be part of this dedicated team.

The decision was driven by a Victim Needs Assessment (VNA) carried out by the PCC's office in 2020/21 which revealed gaps in provision.

PCC Spurrell said: "These changes are designed to address the areas of improvement detailed in the VNA and enhance the existing service through the creation of a centralised ‘hub’ of trained, knowledgeable staff – real people making a real difference to victims of crime in Merseyside.

“This hub will provide a single point of contact for victims and survivors, who will be guaranteed access to free, confidential and non-judgemental advice and support, tailored to their needs."

The restructure, which was also shaped by the feedback of victims, aims to "significantly streamline the process for a victim of crime" by offering them access to a specialist team of care staff.

This new service started work on Monday, ahead of an official launch in November. While the hub is new, aspects of the current VCM service remain unchanged.

PCC Spurrell said: "Through this service I already commission 10 local organisations to provide specialist support, particularly for the most vulnerable victims of crime.

“This includes a dedicated aftercare support service for survivors of rape and sexual assault delivered by RASA and RASASC, a specialist harmful practices support service provided by Savera UK, a service run by Catch22 supporting young victims of sexual or criminal exploitation and tailored support for victims of hate crime delivered by the Anthony Walker Foundation, Daisy Inclusive UK and Citizens Advice Liverpool."

Funding is also provided for a "wide range of independent domestic abuse charities", while the VCM website has details of more than 60 organisations that can help.