Calls for assistance can come from police, other community agencies such as Family Counselling, Hospital, Social Services, or from the victims and/or their families.

The goals of Victim Services are:

1. To lessen the immediate impact of a crime or tragedy on a person.

2. To assist victims coping with the effects of a crime.

3. To refer victims to appropriate agencies that may provide more long-term aid.

4. To provide encouragement, support and information.

5. To help victims better understand and work with both the Court and Police Procedures.

6. To make available Court preparation and/or accompaniment for victims who are required to give evidence in court.

7. To assist with court related issues, such as:
   • Victim Impact Statements
   • Peace Bond Applications
   • Support during Justice Community Diversions.

Assistance or referral to victims and family members can be provided for situations such as:

If you have been a victim of a crime you may suffer physical and emotional effects.  A Victim Impact Statement allows you to express in writing to a judge, how a crime has affected you and the people close to you.  Your Impact Statement should describe the harm done, the loss suffered by you and the emotional impact you have experienced.  Filling out the impact statement is voluntary, but if you choose to do so, a volunteer can assist you.  The statement will be considered by the judge at the time of sentencing.  The Victim Statement can be read by the judge or by yourself in court.

Filling out the Statement is an opportunity for the victim to be heard.

Being a victim of a crime can be a traumatic experience.  Going through the criminal court process can also be traumatic.  Victim services staff will work with you to answer your questions about your criminal justice proceedings, provide assistance and emotional support, and accompany you to court if you wish.

• Emotional Support
• Accompaniment to the hospital
• Liaison with the police, hospital, court and other community services
• Referrals to community agencies
• Information about crime and the legal system
• Practical assistance with tasks after an incident
• Victim impact statements
• Going to court

• Supported
• Treated with respect and compassion
• Offered information
• Helped with the police and court
• Helped with community resources
• Encouraged to report crime and act as a witness

Volunteers receive 36 hours of training in preparation for providing on call assistance to victims.  Training covers topics such as communication and listening, crisis intervention, family violence, stalking, elder abuse, property crimes, child abuse, sexual assault, criminal justice system, sudden death, and other topics.  Volunteers provide on call support evenings and weekends and sign up for weekly shifts that fit their schedules.  Volunteers are able to carry out their daily activities while on call by carrying cell phones.  Monthly meetings are held for ongoing training and support for volunteers and to connect the group of dedicated and fun individuals.  If you are interested in meeting new people and helping victims, contact (867) 920-2978.