Victim service extends across Highland
27 Oct 04
Four more sheriff court districts served by VIA
The advice and information available for victims of crime in the Highland & Islands region has been strengthened by the extension of the Inverness-based Victim Information and Advice (VIA) service to Dingwall, Portree, Tain and Dornoch.
VIA, part of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, provides a dedicated service to certain victims
of crime, bereaved next-of-kin and vulnerable witnesses, offering information on the progress of their case, the range of practical and emotional support available, and the criminal justice system in general.
Sue Moody, Director of VIA said: "The Dingwall, Portree, Tain and Dornoch offices will be serviced by staff at VIA Inverness who will meet with victims and others at their local procurator fiscal office whenever necessary or be in contact by telephone or letter."
Area Procurator Fiscal for Highland & Islands, Andrew Laing, said: "VIA has already provided an important service to members of the public in Inverness, Badenoch and Strathspey and Lochaber and I am pleased that the VIA service has now been extended."
A further roll-out of the service across the area will take place by the end of the year.