Vulnerable people throughout Harborough will still be able to get vital help during the coronavirus pandemic. Leicestershire Police and Crime Commissioner Lord Willy Bach said essential services for victims and witnesses of crime would still be accessible. Lord Bach also vowed to back providers as much as possible to ensure they can continue to step in to help those who need it most. The retired criminal law barrister’s now written to all partners to establish what their delivery plans will be during the global health emergency to judge where critical funding and additional resources are needed in the weeks ahead. Lord Bach has also issued a rallying call to the services and projects he commissions. The former Harborough councillor is encouraging them to divert some of their resources towards alternative work to help combat Covid-19. Lord Bach said: "Now, more than ever, we need to support our neighbours and communities and give them the help and attention they need to stay safe. "It is my duty to protect the most vulnerable in our communities. “I will do everything possible to support the services I commission to ensure access to help and advice continues for those who desperately need it.” He added: "During these unprecedented times, we need to pull together and work as one team. “This is what community spirit is all about. “I fund a vast array of services and have been encouraged by the willingness of so many to shift focus and come to the aid of those suffering as a result of this crisis. “This has the added benefit of reducing the demand on the police and other emergency services.” Victim First, the PCC's free, independent and confidential service supporting victims and witnesses of crime across Leicestershire, is still running with support being provided remotely. All other services to victims or witnesses of crime remain available. They are now largely being delivered remotely via phone/online to comply with social distancing measures. The only exceptions to this are: Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs). These will remain open for victims of sexual abuse who require a forensic examination in person Target Hardening Service. Home security improvements for vulnerable victims of crime will be temporarily postponed as people self-isolate, until the period of isolation is complete. However, emergency lock changes will continue to take place in appropriate domestic abuse cases. Services for vulnerable people coping with substance misuse continue to operate, partly via phone/internet. Face to face contact will only continue where “absolutely necessary”. PCC-commissioned services to support and engage with young people and communities have had to suspend most of their work. But many are working to identify new approaches to services over the coming weeks. Leicestershire's domestic abuse services are still available and help and support is available if needed. If you are already receiving help or support, please contact the service directly for information on changes to service levels. In an emergency where there is imminent danger always call 999.
