CONSTANCE WELCOMES SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES OF LOVED ONES KILLED ABROAD

CONSTANCE WELCOMES SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES OF LOVED ONES KILLED ABROAD

Almond Valley MSP Angela Constance has welcomed the announcement from the Scottish Government that £40,000 funding is to be granted to Victim Support Scotland to enable them to support the families of loved ones killed abroad, particularly at a time when people need help the most.

Victim Support Scotland provide an excellent specialist service offering financial and emotional support to families resident in Scotland affected by an overseas murder or culpable homicide.

The enhancement of services for loved ones stems in part from feedback from the UK APPG on Death Abroad Consular Services & Assistance.  The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development office also continues to partner with Victim Support Scotland.

Commenting Ms Constance said

“As a constituency MSP I have supported families who have experienced the devastation and trauma as a result of a loved one dying abroad.  This is especially difficult for any family given the distance and barriers often involved, but the  situation is even more complex and distressing when a loved ones death is caused by a crime or suspected crime.  It is therefore fundamental that the right help is afforded to such families at a time when they need help the most. 

There is much more to do to support affected families and I am pleased that the Westminster all party group chaired by Livingston MP, Hannah Bardell is continuing to press for improved consular services. Meantime, I am pleased that the Scottish Government is providing additional funding so Victim Support can extend their service to families in their time of need.  “

Kate Wallace, Chief Executive of Victim Support Scotland added  

“This grant will make a tangible and practical difference to families who are bereaved by murder or culpable homicide abroad. In addition to the trauma of losing a family member in this way, families often contend with issues and additional expenditure around international travel, language differences, dealing with the legal system of another country and the repatriation of their family member.

“With this additional funding, we can now extend the support we give to families in Scotland to include people bereaved by events abroad. Victim Support Scotland welcomes the opportunity to provide this crucial additional support.”

ENDS

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