New support hub for victims and survivors of terrorism

A new support hub has launched for victims and survivors of terrorism to deliver tailored and trauma-informed care.

Support will be available round the clock for anyone affected by a terrorist incident.

Victim Support will work with the Peace Collective and West London NHS Trust to bring together leading expertise into one coordinated service. This will combine clinical expertise and practical assistance to deliver a coordinated service tailored to the needs of victims and survivors and bring dedicated caseworkers, personalised support and specialist provision for children and young people together in one place.

The support hub will operate 24/7 and will assign each victim and survivor a single point of contact for tailored, trauma-informed support.

It can be accessed via the website or by phone.

Where needed, the hub will also provide specialist mental health assessments and psychological support via the National Psychology Service for Victims and Survivors of Terror at West London NHS Trust.

Katie Kempen, Chief Executive at Victim Support, said: "The horror of experiencing a terror attack is far-reaching and can have a devastating impact on victims, survivors and their families. The road to recovery can be a long and complicated one. Being able to access the right help at the right time can make a huge difference.    

"We are proud to be working in partnership to deliver specialist trauma-informed support services – including immediate emotional reassurance, practical help, specialist psychological support, and longer-term recovery assistance – to anyone who needs it."

Travis Frain OBE, survivor of the Westminster Bridge attack, said: "Following a terrorist attack, one of the hardest challenges for many victims is navigating how to access support. From medical care to compensation and the legal system, there is no clear structure and victims are passed from pillar to post whilst their condition worsens, and society moves on.

"Terrorism seeks to shatter our confidence in the government’s ability to keep us safe, and if we don’t properly support those affected, we risk doing the terrorists’ job for them. The Support Hub is an important step forward, and we stand ready to support, and – where required – scrutinise its work."