|
People react in different ways to
having their home broken into: for
some people, housebreaking is an
irritating inconvenience, for others it
causes strong reactions: it can be hard
to come to terms with the knowledge
that your private possessions and
personal space have been disturbed
by a stranger. It's not unusual to feel
angry or insecure and to find that
your normal routine is disrupted.
These reactions are normal and
usually temporary.
Talking to a Victim Support Volunteer
can help: Victim Support's trained
volunteers are aware that everyone
reacts in different ways. They can
provide confidential, free, support
and advice, through a home visit, an
office appointment or over the phone.
If you have children, they may be
particularly upset. Encourage them
to talk to you and let them know
you understand.
What should you do first?
Make a list of all stolen items and any
damage to your home or property.
You will need this for the police and
for any insurance claim. Give the
police full details of any loss and
damage, including any stolen itmes or
damage you discover later. This is
important if someone is caught and
convicted, as he/she may be ordered by
the court to pay you compensation for
your loss.
If credit cards, bank cards or cheque
books have been stolen, inform the
bank or credit card company
immediately. If all your cards are
insured through one company, contact
them at once.
Contact the Benefits Agency and
Housing Department about replacing
stolen pension, benefits or rent books.
Theft of official documents, such as
passports or driving licences should be
notified to the issuing authorities as
soon as possible.
You may need emergency repairs.
If you are a tenant, your landlord,
the council or housing association
should arrange this.
If you have any practical difficulties, Victim Support can help
Victim Support does not give financial help but we can:
- tell you where you may get financial help
- help you liaise with different agencies
- help you investigate insurance cover
- give crime prevention advice
- support you if the case goes to court
- tell you about criminal injuries compensation to which you may be
entitled if violence was used against you
Making your home more secure
If you are worried about the security
of your home, Victim Support can give
you crime prevention information.
For more specialist advice, your local
police station can arrange for a crime
prevention officer to visit you.
Do
- secure windows and doors before you go out
- leave one room - not the hall - lit up if you are out at night
- lock garages and sheds and keep ladders inside
- ask someone you trust to watch your home while you're away
- mark your valuables with your post code and house number using an ultraviolet pen
Don't
- leave door keys under mats or flower pots
- keep large amounts of cash at home
- let strangers in without checking their identity
- forget to cancel milk and papers before you go away
- leave packaging from new appliances outside your home
Call us on the number
below, or phone the Victim Support Helpline on 0845 603 9213.
Call us 01294 277040
| 
