Thames Valley Partnership, are sending a team of specialists to this years Reading Festival to provide on-site support for victims of crime.
The charitie’s Victims First Specialist Support Service will be situated in a branded marquee in the Yellow Campsite by the Arena gate, and also located in one of the nearby Air Hubs to offer support to anyone who is a victim of any crime, including domestic abuse and sexual assault.
The team will be on hand day and night offering a safe space for festival goers who want to speak to one of the team. They can provide emotional and practical support as well as help victims understand the process and how the charity can support them longer term.
CEO of the charity Nikki Ross, said: “The organisers of the festival take the safety and security of those attending seriously and have invited our team to be there to provide specialist support if it’s needed. When someone is a victim of crime, particularly at a large event like this, they may not want to report it to the police at that stage and instead want someone to talk to in confidence, to get advice or just to have someone listen to them and talk through their options.
“Our charity provides specialist support to victims and witnesses of crime including sexual violence, and exploitation and our teams are all experienced at helping victims recovery from the impact of crime. We will be there to support anyone who needs our help no matter what crime has been committed or if someone just feels unsafe or uneasy. People can approach staff in the Welfare tent and around the site who will help them find us if needed.”
The charity will be on site: Wednesday – 11am – 5pm, Thursday 10am- 8pm and Friday, Saturday and Sunday – 7am until 1am and Monday 8am – midday.
Anyone wanting to report a crime can also contact the police directly or approach any steward onsite to get help.
