Best known for their support for victims of crime, Victim Support has added another new service during the year, supporting families who have been bereaved by road traffic collision. They already provide a Witness Service giving information and support to witnesses in each of Dyfed's Crown and magistrates' courts, as well as their core service for victims of crime. During 2003/04, the Witness Service more than trebled activity supporting 276 prosecution and defence witnesses at 102 Pembrokeshire trials. And Victim support's service for Victims offered support to 2,000 Pembrokeshire victims of crime. Their volunteers made 161 visits to victims in their own home. "It's only when someone needs one of our services that most people actually think about Victim Support," said Peter Gilbert, area manager. "Individuals can feel like pawns caught up in a system. Victim Support's volunteers in each of our services provide invaluable personal attention that focuses on helping that person through their experience of crime, going to court, or coping with the sudden loss of a family member." As well as offering information and assistance Victim Support is able to put people in touch with other agencies where specialised support is needed. Some 109 victims were helped to claim £188,487 from the Criminal Injuries Compensation scheme. Victim Support's services are confidential and free and are available whether or not the police have been involved. The charity receives core funding from the Home Office, but seeks additional support to develop a full range of services. Chair of the charity, Miss Vicki Hains, said: "Victim Support has been active in Pembrokeshire for over 12 years. It's really encouraging that our services are so well used, and expanding. The need for these services has always existed - we are just pleased that people find them useful and are turning to us more and more." Victim Support can be contacted on (01437) 763593 or 563337 to access local services, to volunteer, or to make a donation. The annual general meeting of Victim Support Dyfed will be held on Wednesday, September 15, at 2 pm at Dyfed-Powys Police Headquarters, Llangunnor, Carmarthen. Members of the public are very welcome to attend.