Coping after a crime

Life can be difficult after you've experienced crime, especially if you lose a friend or a relative. But there are ways to be there for your loved ones and methods for looking after yourself

If you lose a mate, boyfriend, girlfriend or relative due to crime:

Losing anyone close whatever the reason is a difficult process. Your emotions run haywire while you try to grasp what has happened, and the loss you feel seems endless. While we can't bring them back for you there are places of support. Support after Murder and Manslaughter (SAMM) have a helpline providing support to families bereaved by homicide: 020 7735 3838.

If a friend has been a victim of crime

Being a victim can affect people in many different ways, and can be a pretty emotional experience regardless of the seriousness of the act itself. Common reactions include shock, anxiety, depression and fear. Mostly these feelings fade quite quickly but some can remain with the victim for a long time.

What you can do:

• Be there for them: You don't need to be the tree of knowledge you know, just being there for them will be enough. It may be that they want to be by themselves, but just letting them know you are there and making the odd call or text of support until they are ready to talk will help endlessly.
• Listen: When they are ready to talk about it, listen to them. Make the time, find a quiet place and let them talk.
• Further support: Give them the relevant helpline details and advise them to go to the police. If you feel distressed or burdened by your mate, relative, or lover's situation you can contact Victim Support for advice too, or look on their website for more help and support.