POLICE bosses at Cheshire Constabulary have launched a new support service for victims as part of the force's strategy to help those affected by crime.

Police and crime commissioner John Dwyer and chief constable Simon Byrne were joined by victims of crime as well as organisations providing services for victims and Baroness Helen Newlove, who was appointed as the victims commissioner in 2012, during the launch on Friday.

Mr Dwyer said the new service reinforced Cheshire Police's commitment to victims.

He added: "Whether their journey with us is relatively short or one that lasts for some time it should be a meaningful and caring one.  

"For some victims their needs may be no more than having someone listen, know that a crime has been recorded, be provided with a crime number for insurance purposes and details of how to access services if their needs change in the future.

“For others the impact of the crime will require emotional and practical support to help them cope and recover from the experience.  

"Whatever the length of contact every victim of crime deserves right level of service to meet their unique needs.  

In Cheshire, victims have previously been supported by the charity Victim Support. 

The new venture funded by the police and crime commissioner sees the launch of Cheshire CARES.

This will provide a support service for all victims of crime and aims to deliver a faster assessment of what an individual victim needs.

Chief Constable Simon Byrne said: “This will allow victims to be put at the heart of policing in Cheshire and meet the requirements of the Victim’s Code of Practice.

Victims commissioner Baroness Newlove added: “Victims need to sit at the heart of any service designed to help and support them. Cheshire Cares will help many victims of crime to reach the support and advice available to them. 

"These services are important to ensure the victim is not forgotten in the criminal justice process."