Bereaved families and survivors of terror attacks will finally be given around-the-clock support in a major victory for victims.
Home Office minister Dan Jarvis told The Mirror that the complex and fragmented system for getting help with trauma and grief “ends now”. It comes after families affected by atrocities like the attacks on Westminster Bridge, Tunisian holiday resorts and Manchester Arena said they had been let down.
On Monday a new 24/7 Victim and Survivors Support Hub will be established, bringing together organisations including the NHS. Cheryl Stollery, whose husband John was among 38 killed when gunmen burst into a resort in Tunisia in 2015, said: “Learning to survive such an attack is beyond belief; the aftermath is different for everyone and often too complex to manage alone, especially where incidents occur overseas.”
She has campaigned tirelessly for improved centralised support since 2015, and said she welcomes the new service being set up. Cheryl said it gives renewed hope for those affected.
View 3 ImagesSecurity minister Dan Jarvis said survivors and grieving families have been let down(Image: PA Wire)
Travis Frain, who was seriously injured in the 2017 Westminster Bridge attack, which claimed the lives of four pedestrians and police officer Keith Palmer, said: “Following a terrorist attack, one of the hardest challenges for many victims is navigating how to access support.
“From medical care to compensation and the legal system, there is no clear structure and victims are passed from pillar to post whilst their condition worsens, and society moves on.
“Terrorism seeks to shatter our confidence in the Government’s ability to keep us safe, and if we don’t properly support those affected, we risk doing the terrorists’ job for them. The Support Hub is an important step forward, and we stand ready to support, and – where required – scrutinise, its’ work.”
The launch comes ahead of the first ever National Day for Victims and Survivors of Terrorism on 21 August. Victim Support will work with the Peace Collective and West London NHS Trust to bring together leading expertise.
View 3 ImagesWestminster Bridge survivor Travis Frane with Prince Charles, as he was in 2017(Image: PA)
Mr Jarvis said: “For too long, victims and survivors of terrorism have had to navigate complicated and fragmented support services. I am pleased to say that ends today with the launch of our new Support Hub.
“It will offer a simpler, more joined-up approach for those rebuilding their lives after an attack – providing a single point of contact for timely emotional and practical support, dedicated caseworkers and personalised support plans.”
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There will be specially trained caseworkers on hand to work with children and young people.
Katie Kempen, chief executive at Victim Support, said: “The horror of experiencing a terror attack is far-reaching and can have a devastating impact on victims, survivors and their families. The road to recovery can be a long and complicated one. Being able to access the right help at the right time can make a huge difference.”