Although the number of people using the Centre has reduced over the past year, a recent consultation with users of the centre has shown that the support the Centre offers is still required and valued by many people. The extended funding will enable the Centre to continue to support people who have been affected by a number of recent terrorist activities and major disasters, both at home and overseas.
Tessa Jowell, the Government Minister responsible for humanitarian assistance, said:
“There is a general recognition amongst those who have used the Centre that it has been a life line for so many of those whose lives were changed forever on that day. Over time, needs change, which is why we have discussed with users their continuing needs and support. The 7 July Assistance Centre in its new location will continue to provide high quality advice, support and access to information.”
Key facts about the centre:
- the Centre offers people telephone support, regular newsletters and one to one counselling;
- the 7th July Assistance Centre website continues to be a popular source of support and information;
- and the Centre supports people from 16 major incidents.
The 7th July Assistance Centre was set up by Westminster City Council to support all those affected by the London bombings 2005, and has since supported those involved in a number of other major incidents.
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NOTES FOR EDITORS
- Following an independent evaluation of the Centre’s services in January 2007, the DCMS confirmed extended funding for the year April 2007 to March 2008. Further information about the Evaluation is available on the DCMS website. In September 2007, the 7th July Assistance Centre conducted a consultation to establish the ongoing needs of its service users. The results indicated some changes in people’s needs. Further information about the service user consultation is available on the 7th July Assistance Centre website.
- The 7 July Assistance Centre administrative offices and Helpline will be moving location to Willesden Centre for Health & Care in north-west London. Rooms will also be made available at Regent’s College for drop in visits every Wednesday afternoon and for individual counselling sessions at other times.
- Please use the following strapline as part of your coverage (also available in other print and broadcast versions):You can find information, practical advice and emotional support by calling the Centre on 0845 054 7444 or visiting the website.
- The Centre supports people affected by: Bali bombings - 12 October 2002
Tsunami – 26 December 2004
Doha bombing – 20 March 2005
London bombings – 7 July 2005
Kusadasi, Turkey bombing – 16 July 2005
Failed London bombings – 21 July 2005
Stockwell shooting – 22 July 2005
Sharm El Sheikh bombings – 23 July 2005
Bali bombing – 2 October 2005
Bahrain boat sinking – 31 March 2006
Dahab bombings – 25 April 2006
Marmaris, Turkey bombing – 27/28 August 2006
Jordan shooting – 4 September 2006
Hat Yai, Thailand bombing – 16 September 2006
Saudi Arabia – 12 May 2003
Bangkok, Thailand – 31 December 2006
- Since it was established in 2005, the Centre has acted as the ‘hub’ for information and support. The Centre has worked closely with a wide range of organisations including NHS Trauma Response (London Bombings), the Metropolitan Police, the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority, the London Bombings Relief Charitable Fund (now closed), the Law Society, the Health Protection Authority, British Red Cross and Cruse Bereavement Care.
- For more information about the 7th July Assistance Centre please contact the DCMS press office – number below. DCMS took over the funding of the Centre in November 2005.
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