Sarah James- Community Engagement Co-ordinator, Safer Communities, Victim Care and Advice Service

Why did you become a Healthwatch Community Champion?

I became a Health Watch Champion as I care about the health and wellbeing of people living in the South Tees and wider Cleveland area. I have previously worked in Social Prescribing and Community Policing and am currently the Community Engagement Co-ordinator for Safer Communities, Victim Care and Advice Service. Crime and anti-social behaviour have a significant impact on the wellbeing of individuals, families and the wider community and it is important that support is available to aid recovery.

How does your role help people in South Tees?

As Community Engagement Co-ordinator I promote and raise awareness of the support available from Safer Communities, Victim Care and Advice Service and also Restorative Cleveland, by building links in the community. We support people impacted by crime and anti-social behaviour and this includes direct victims of crime, family members and also witnesses. Emotional and practical support is provided by our team and includes advice and support with reporting crime, the opportunity to talk about the impact of crime/anti-social behaviour, support with navigating the criminal justice process, including attending court, and information about crime prevention. We also raise awareness of current crime trends, including scams. We work closely with partner agencies and make onward referrals to other organisations who may be able to provide additional support.