Victim Support - RUOK

More information for parents or carers

Victim Support Croydon and the R U OK? Project are committed to helping people young and old with any issues surrounding crime. The ethos of our Organisation is to support children and young people through their families thus making the family unit" self supporting" and more aware of issues going on for the young person.

Your child may not always be honest when asked if the crime has affected them and they may reply that they are "alright". However, they may display physical symptoms such as headaches, stomach pains and feel sick. Changed sleeping or eating habits, fear of the dark and a general loss of confidence and loss of desire to be independent could indicate that this is not the case.

Give your child plenty of reassurance that what has happened isn't their fault.
Encourage them to take reasonable steps to protect themselves from crime but help them avoid continually worrying about crime prevention.
Don't rush your child back into their old routine before they are able to cope with it.

If your child has been affected by a burglary it may be a little while before they feel safe at home.

The following practical tips may help increase your child's feeling of safety.

Give your child a personal alarm or torch to try and give them a greater sense of security and control.
Leave a nightlight on all night or until you go to bed to help reduce your child's fear of the dark.
Music from a radio or tape may help your child relax and feel calmer.
If you are increasing your home security, let your child see the steps you are taking i.e. new locks, more lighting etc.

If you, as parents/carers have any concerns about your child then we can help you. Click on "How to contact us" Alternatively you can contact Parentline Plus who have experience of the problems that can arise when parenting as children don't come with instructions! They can be contacted on www.parentlineplus.org.uk or Freephone 0808 800 2222

If your child has been a victim of a violent crime they may be eligible for Criminal Injuries Compensation Click here to find out more.

In some cases we work directly with young people to provide them with the help and support they need. We will encourage them to share what has been discussed with their parents or carers but we do offer them the same level of confidentiality as adult victims.

All our staff and volunteers are subject to Criminal Records checks and are not allowed to join the Organisation if these checks aren't satisfactory.

We will always do our best to help you and your child when you have been affected by crime. Click here to find out How to contact us.