06 August 2008 - Junior Minister announce consultation on a new strategy for victims and survivors

Announcing the launch of the consultation period which will last for 12 weeks, at the WAVE Trauma Centre in Belfast Jeffrey Donaldson said: “Today marks another important step forward for the Executive. We have said since the restoration of devolution that we would make victims and survivors a priority for this administration.

“We have recently announced interim funding arrangements for work with victims and survivors during this year. The outline strategy proposes the way ahead in the longer term. There is no issue more sensitive or difficult to deal with for the Executive than that of how to address the needs of victims and survivors. We hope that this document will help to move us on the road to making a real difference to the lives of those who have been most affected by the events here over the last 40 years."

Gerry Kelly added: “The Executive set aside £36million to meet the needs of victims and survivors over the next three years. However, we want to ensure that future support and services are shaped by victims and survivors. It is important that everyone with an interest in victims and survivors issues read this draft document carefully and gives us their views. This outline Strategy will set a clear direction for policy in this area over the next 10 years. Through the Executive, we have the opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of those affected by conflict.

Minister Donaldson and Minister Kelly met with staff and volunteers at the WAVE Trauma Centre to hear of the support they deliver to victims and survivors – from befriending and individual counselling to advice and training seminars.

Notes to Editors:

1. The consultation document can be obtained by contacting the Victims Unit of OFMDFM at the following address:
The Victims Unit

2. The document may also be downloaded from the OFMDFM website
3. Founded in 1991, the WAVE Trauma Centre is a victims and survivors support group which provides a range of services to both communities, offering individual counselling, personal development and empowerment training and complementary therapies to those affected by the conflict. 4. There are five centres as part of the WAVE group – Belfast, Armagh, Ballymoney, Omagh and Londonderry.5. Media enquiries to OFMDFM Press Office on 028 9052 1375. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Office via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.