PEOPLE in Worcestershire are being reminded about a service which allows photographs of injuries suffered by victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence to be stored.

The Visual Evidence for Victims (VEV) project is designed to take photographs of injuries or items that have been damaged and also allows photographs to be stored securely for up to six years so that they will be available if a victim decides to report the crime at a later date.

The project is run by Victim Support in partnership with other local organisations, and a number of groups around the county are now trained in this.

These groups include West Mercia Women’s Aid, West Mercia Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre, Stonham, the Glade, Safer Worcester and Maggs day centre.

Martin Lakeman, strategic co-ordinator for Worcestershire Forum Against Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence, said: “The VEV project is an excellent initiative that we thoroughly support. Victims are often too scared and intimidated to report their abuse to the police so by recording the evidence it ensures that the horror of domestic or sexual abuse can be stored safely and securely. Photos are only taken with the agreement of the victim and all of them are treated with dignity and understanding.

“During The 16 Days of Action we are keen to promote the help and advice that is available in Worcestershire. Nobody should suffer in silence.”

The White Ribbon campaign, which is part of the 16 Days campaign, urges people to pledge never to condone domestic abuse or sexual violence.

Pledge your support at www.whiteribboncampaign.co.uk/Worcestershire.

To call in confidence about domestic abuse call 0800 980 3331 or to call about sexual abuse dial 01905 724514.