The project involves probation officers putting victims in touch with each other so they feel less isolated and can share their experiences.

The Victim Contact Team in Leicestershire and Rutland say being able to talk to other victims of crime can help people get over the trauma.

The scheme has been so successful, the Home Office is considering rolling it out across the country.

Off work

The service has proved valuable to the families of victims as well.

One woman - known as Gaynor - said her husband was attacked in the street by 20 youths close to his home in Leicester.

His arm was badly broken and now has a metal plate in it, and his head was split open.

Gaynor says talking to others who have been in similar situations helps, because she keeps reliving the events.

She said: "I saw it all happen and I still have the nightmares.

"My husband was off work for nine months but it has affected me as well."