Thousands of victims of violent crime are missing out on compensation, a committee of MPs has claimed.

Apparently, only one in 20 victims apply for the compensation while just one in three is even aware they might be due some money.

Also, many victims are not told they can avoid solicitors' fees by consulting Victim Support for free.

The problem has again come up in the national media with victims of the July 7th bombings in London still waiting for money three-and-a-half years later.

Speak to community leaders and volunteers with victim support groups in your area.

Group leaders should be happy to highlight the work they do and problems they face while some victims themselves may also wish to discuss their plight.