Lancashire Victim Services are to sponsor the 2016 Blackpool Pride festival in a bid to promote their help, advice and support services to members of Lancashire’s LGB&T community.
The specialist advice, support and third party reporting service was set up by Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Clive Grunshaw in 2015. The move followed a decision by Government to transfer responsibility for providing services for crime victims to Police and Crime Commissioners.
The Blackpool Pride festival on June 11 and 12 brings together LGB&T communities in a weekend of fun that aims to encourage everyone to make friends and be themselves in an environment where they feel safe and welcomed.
But the Commissioner is all too well aware that away from the fun of the festival, individuals who are lesbian, bi, gay or trans can often be victims of hate crime simply because of their lifestyle.
The Commissioner explained: “Thousands of members of the LGB&T community will enjoy Blackpool Pride during the weekend and the event will be fun and enjoyable for all involved.
“But I know that away from the festival people can often experience hate crime simply because of their lifestyle choices and much of it isn’t reported. That is why I am keen to ensure that Lancashire Victim Services are on hand to provide information on how people can get the support they need if they are experiencing hate or other crimes.
“Nobody should have to suffer because of their sexuality or gender identity but Lancashire Victim Services can provide support whenever it’s needed.”
Lancashire Victim Services provides self-referral for all victims of crime even if they haven’t reported the incident to police.
Anyone who has been affected by crime, whenever it happened, can contact LVS for free and confidential support, information or advice by calling 0300 323 0085. Alternatively, email info@lancashirevictimservices.org or visit www.lancashirevictimservices.org
