Support for victims of military criminals
A LIGHT has been shone on an MoD unit that helps victims of serious crimes by military personnel, as it marks its first year.
Fiona is one of 10 liaison officers brought in to build and shape the Victim Witness Care Unit.
She said: “I used to work for Hampshire Constabulary as a police communications controller.
“We come from a variety of backgrounds: some are veterans, social workers and from a law enforcement background.
“The best thing is being able to see through cases from the start of the investigation to the end, and knowing that whatever the outcome, you are the person who will make the process slightly better for them.
“Anyone who reports a serious crime committed by a person subject to service law will be referred. Nine times out of 10 they want to engage after we show them what we can do. We help them navigate the Service Justice System, keep them updated on investigations and court dates, make referrals and suggestions of specialist support.
“Some want to be in contact weekly, others not so often, just when their case goes to court. Most are serving in the military and the majority are female. A large proportion are victims of sexual offences, but I’ve got clients who have been victims of grievous bodily harm. Friends and family sometimes do ask how I mentally cope listening to such sad stories.
“I am the person... who helps navigate them through so that when we get to the end, they can see a more positive future. It’s just incredibly rewarding.
“We can’t always get the outcome the victim hopes for, but we always try to make the victim feel that the Service Justice System was invested in doing what is best.”