New funding support for victims of terrorism

The Home Office has announced that new funding will be provided to improve the services which support victims of terrorism.

The government says that £500,000 will be split equally between four successful bidders following the conclusion of a competitive fund which was announced by the Home Secretary in March. Victim Support, South London and Maudsley NHS Trust, Cruse Bereavement Care and the Peace Foundation will each receive £125,000 to provide advice and support to those who have been affected by terrorist attacks.

Victim Support will run a 24-hour assessment service which will ensure each person receives tailored help after being impacted by terrorism.

South London and Maudsley NHS Trust will provide specialist clinical mental health screening and therapy.

Cruse Bereavement will provide specialist bereavement support for victims who would not otherwise be eligible through the existing homicide service, such as witnesses and first responders.

The Peace Foundation’s UK-wide service will focus on providing a long-term peer support network for victims of terrorism, connecting them to others who have had similar experiences.

Home Secretary Priti Patel said: “I am determined to make sure that victims of terrorism receive the support they deserve, as soon as they need it. This new funding is so important to provide more care and specialist advice to those up and down the country who have suffered trauma as a result of terrorism.”