Victim Care and Advice Service (VCAS)

The Victim Care and Advice Service (VCAS) provides free, independent and confidential support to victims of crime and their families.

VCAS runs services in Cleveland, County Durham and Darlington. Stockton-based charity Safer Communities runs VCAS on behalf of the Police and Crime Commissioners for Cleveland and Durham.

VCAS Services

Trained staff provide the following:

A single point of contact;
Support for all victims, who ask for it – regardless of whether the incident has been reported to the police;
Focus on the victims, who have suffered greatest harm.

Services are tailored to help victims cope with the impact of crime as well as to help them recover from it.

What does VCAS do?

VCAS helps with issues identified by victims, which may include the following:

Responding to immediate safety concerns and risks;
Providing emotional and practical support;
Offering advice, support and encouragement;
Promoting empowerment;
Considering the benefits of participation in restorative justice
Helping with criminal injuries compensation claims;
Accessing support services;
Support for young victims.

How does VCAS deliver its services?

Services are delivered in a number of ways including the following:

Home visits and face-to-face meetings;
Support and contact via telephone, text or email;
Providing victims of crime with a voice via advocacy;
One to one care for the most vulnerable;
Practical assistance and emotional support.

VCAs also delivers Friends against Scams awareness sessions.

Until 31 March 2023, a specialist Fraud Victims Advocate will be based at VCAS. The role works with victims of fraud to reclaim cash back from the banks and other financial agencies