The Essex police commissioner will take control over funding for victim support services later this year.

Nick Alston will take over the spending of £600,000 for services from central government between October and March next year.

He will then have a budget of £1.8million for the next financial year.

Mr Alston, said: “My vision seeks to build on the good work already in place, as well as to fill gaps and develop new approaches based on good practice, in order to help victims to cope and recover after crime.

“I believe this is a great opportunity to enhance the provision of support and help available to victims of many different types of crime across our county.”

Mr Alston’s office says it has undertaken an analysis of victims’ needs, as well as a review of crime data and of good practice across the country.

Victims and dedicated agencies were also consulted for their views.