Sandwell Webwell - Visual Evidence for Victims (VEV)

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Domestic Violence / Sexual Abuse

Visual Evidence for Victims (VEV)

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Visual Evidence for Victims supports victims of crime (aged 18 and over) that are not yet ready to go to the police, for whatever reason. VEV was set up to allow victims to have evidence of a crime recorded by a voluntary sector agency in confidence. The agencies involved in the project are trained to record photographic evidence that is admissible as evidence in court. The project is supported by West Midlands Police (who provide training), but it is managed by Victim Support West Midlands and is entirely independent from the police.

The CPS approved digital cameras are used to take photograph of injuries to people or damage to property caused by Domestic Abuse, Sexual Violence or Hate crime (crimes committed against an individual because of their sexuality, race religion disability).


Physical injuries: Bruises Cuts Swelling Pulled out hair etc.		Damage to property: Broken windows Damaged doors Dented car Graffiti etc.

VEV service is completely confidential and free of charge. We will NOT tell anyone else that we have taken photographs.

The supporting agencies store the photographs securely for future use, and they can be kept for up to 6 years. The evidence can be used for reporting crime to the police at a later stage, and in any criminal proceedings as a result. It can also be used in civil proceedings (for example to get an injunction), or to support a claim for criminal injuries compensation. The victim is able to decide when and if the photographs are used. If the victim wishes to use them as evidence they must give their signed consent. If the victim no longer wishes the photo to be kept, they can consent to them being destroyed.

For more information visit the VEV website at www.vev.org.uk