Service calls for help

RGP 20Aug15 - Victim Support's Anna Meredith is looking for volunteer workers. PHOTO: KATEE SHANKS RGP 20Aug15 -

Eastern Bay of Plenty's new Victim Support service coordinator Anna Meredith has extended an appeal for volunteer workers.

The service, which provides a 24/7, 365-day-a-year service to support victims of serious crime and trauma, is under pressure with a slim team of six.

"We're looking for volunteers who want to empower victims and help them restore control," Ms Meredith said. "It's not about taking over, it's about getting their lives back in their own way."

The Eastern Bay of Plenty region serves victims from Te Kaha through to Matata, and almost as far as Rotorua. Victim Support aims to double its numbers to meet demands of the area.

Ms Meredith says Victim Support workers will be fully trained. "The most important thing is not to know everything, but simply to be there. Workers advocate, give information, practical, emotional and financial support to victims through a range of crime and trauma, responding to the need of the individual, not just the type of crime."

Most volunteers fit their role around full-time work and personal commitments, making the time because the work is important.

"I love getting involved in the community because you always get back so much more than you give.

"The skills and experience you get from volunteering makes a very compelling CV too."
Volunteers are on a 24/7 roster according to their availability. For serious crime, they can respond within 45 minutes of a phone call. The goal is to work face-to-face, but a lot of the support is done over the phone.

"We're looking for people of all ages who care, have a computer and car access, who we can rely on to be there for people when they're needed most."

¦If you are interested in helping, visit www.victimsupport.org.nz or call 0800 VOLUNTEER (0800 86 85 68).