Research business Pleydell Smithyman is to study into how crime victims are supported across Dyfed-Powys.

The work, for Police and Crime Commissioner Christopher Salmon, will also identify gaps in the service. It will help Mr Salmon commission a new suite of victims’ services across Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire and Powys.

Sarah Wheale, project consultant at Pleydell Smithyman, said: “We’re thrilled to win this contract to provide a directory of crime victims' services.

“Our research will include building a database of victim’s services, hosting workshops with organisations who wish to help victims, surveying service providers, creating a service provision map and inviting feedback on our draft report.”

Workshop invitations are being distributed from May 19. Those eager to take part in the research should contact Sarah Wheale 01952 433211, email sarah@pleydellsmithyman.co.uk.

Mr Salmon will be responsible for local commissioning of victims’ services from October. During 2014-15, he will access central government funding of £113,000 to work with potential providers to prepare for local commissioning. In 2015-16 the funding rises to £438,000 for direct delivery of services.

He said: “I want to ensure that all crime victims in Dyfed-Powys get the support they need to cope with the immediate impacts of crime and to recover from the harm experienced.

“Every victim deserves help. Nobody who suffers a crime should feel unsupported.”

A number of services offering emotional and practical support to crime victims are now provided by the voluntary, community and social enterprise sectors. Mr Salmon wishes to ensure that services are accessible, with a simple online facility.