VICTIM Support is seeking more good listeners to help people come to terms with the often devastating effects of crime.

Last year, the organisation helped 10,000 victims in Wiltshire alone and it desperately needs more volunteers in all aspects of its work.

The service has been running in the county for 15 years and offers support to those affected by theft, assault, rape and murder, both after the event and through the court process, as offenders are brought to justice.

"We are led by the victims and offer them as much or as little support as they need," said area manager Peter Ferguson.

"The police automatically notify us of crimes and we contact the victims, offering a confidential telephone conversation or home visit, which are carried out by our volunteers.

"It gives people a chance to talk things through and, while we are predominately a listening service, we can make people aware of their options.

"We also help people who contact us, but might not have reported a crime to the police."

If a case goes to court, specially trained volunteers help witnesses familiarise themselves with court procedures and offer support as they give evidence.

"For many people, going to court is very daunting but, with extra knowledge, they feel a lot more confident about it," said Mr Ferguson.

The Wiltshire team also provides a helpline for victims of sex offences and domestic violence and runs dedicated residential training courses to prepare compassionate volunteers for this important role.

"We are totally reliant on our volunteers giving their time to the service," said Mr Ferguson.

"We have about 80 across the whole county, but would love to have more because their help is very important and widely appreciated."

The charity is flexible about the amount of time volunteers give and a range of training courses is starting in the coming weeks.

To find out more about how you can help, or if you have been affected by crime and need to contact Victim Support, call 01380 729476.