A SERVICE which helps the victims of crime received a visit from Wiltshire's chief constable and the police and crime commissioner as it marked six months in operation.

Horizon Victim and Witness Care was launched in March, with the aim of ensuring that victims of crime benefit from the best possible support, from their first contact with Wiltshire Police to the end of the criminal justice process.

The service is jointly funded by PCC Angus Macpherson and the force and has 16 members, including a manager and supervisor.

The Chief Constable of Wiltshire and the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) visited the team at police headquarters and listened in to calls.

Mr Macpherson said: “I have put victims of crime at the heart of everything we do. I am proud to have provided funding to make this happen and it is brilliant to see the progress and the impact that Horizon has made in its first six months.

“Sitting in and listening to calls demonstrated to me the professionalism and compassion of the Horizon staff.

“They have certainly made Horizon a high-quality victim and witness service for the people of Wiltshire and Swindon.

“If you are unlucky enough to be a victim of crime in Wiltshire, you can be assured that you will be supported through the criminal justice system.

“If you are vulnerable or you think you might be targeted again, you will get the support you need.

“This is a service that has made a very strong start and is getting better all the time."

Chief Constable Mike Veale said: “It is my responsibility to ensure that the police listen to, support and protect victims and witnesses of crime.

“Horizon is an excellent platform for keeping victims and witnesses informed on the progress of police investigations through phone calls, letters and emails.

“It was a pleasure to sit with Horizon staff to hear their accounts of talking to victims and witnesses and the passion they have for their job was audible in their voices.

“They are well-trained and committed and are a valued part of the organisation.

“All of the team are committed to improving the quality of service to victims and witnesses and they go above and beyond to make a real difference to people in our communities.

“My visit to them was a revelation and the service they provide is fantastic.”

Horizon manager Michelle Nott said: “I am very proud of my team. They have really grasped their cases and have been working incredibly hard.

“They are focused on victims and are extremely passionate about what they do. This is shown by staff going to court to see the outcome of their cases.

"This is proving to be popular with staff as they are able to see the final outcome, having spent considerable time in supporting and encouraging their victims and witnesses to attend court.

“The force has a very dedicated team and there has been some positive feedback from victims.”

For more on Horizon go to www.wiltshire.police.uk/horizon.