Sussex PCC's video log: Safe Space Sussex

In 2016, Police & Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne launched ‘Safe Space Sussex’, the first online directory of local victim services, so that people could easily reach out for support. In response to the ‘lockdown’ and concerns raised around crimes like Domestic Abuse, Mrs Bourne has upgraded this site and recent ran a campaign to help victims covertly reach out for help whilst stuck in isolation - #SafeSpaceSussex.

With the entire country in lockdown, many services have expressed concerns about victims of crime not feeling able to safely reach out for help. Some have seen a decrease in engagement from victims with reports of crimes (like domestic abuse) made to Sussex Police, reducing by around 4%.

The Safe Space Sussex website has been equipped with a new search tool so that within an average of 10 seconds, victims of any crime can find the service they need. It also has a ‘leave site now’ button that users can press to quickly exit the site.

Sussex Police have also issued advice, which will be shared this week, on how a victim of crime can covertly let a call handler know they are in danger. The '55' technology is in place for those too scared to speak, to alert a call handler to the fact they need help by pressing 55 on their mobile phone once they've dialled 999.

If you find yourself in an emergency where you think you or others may be in immediate danger dial 999. Sussex Police are always there for you when you need them. Don’t suffer in silence.

If you would prefer not to contact the police you can report a crime anonymously via Crimestoppers online or by calling: 0800 555 111

www.safespacesussex.org.uk has all the information on support services who can help any victim of crime across Sussex.