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Over one million people
are victimized by crime in Canada every year. These individuals are left to
deal with a wide range of reactions. Emotions such as fear, anger, sadness and
guilt, seriously diminish their quality of life.
After a crime or trauma has occurred the police often become involved.
Individuals affected by these traumatic events are generally happy with police
intervention, but many still wish they had someone to talk to for support and
information. The presence of another can greatly increase feelings of security
after a traumatic incident. Studies also show that through early intervention,
long term problems associated with tragedy can be greatly reduced. Victims have
indicated that in crisis situations, after the police leave:
| 47% |
 |
would like someone to talk to. |
| 33% |
|
would like someone to stay with them so they
feel more protected. |
| 18% |
|
would like advice on getting
help. |
| 16% |
|
have concerns regarding their
children. |
| 13% |
|
would like emergency
transportation. |
| 11% |
|
would like assistance in clearing up the
scene. |
| 9% |
|
would like emergency financial
assistance. |
Individuals often turn to
family or friends for help, but this is not always the case. In Vulcan County
for example, many visitors, seasonal workers and long term residents cannot
readily access these traditional forms of support. This results in many victims
being left to deal with their situation alone.
Over the years, little support and information has been available to assist
victims of crime and trauma. Significant time and energy is devoted to dealing
with offenders, creating an imbalance in the criminal justice system. Through
the provision of support, information and assistance, victim service programs
help address this imbalance.
In May 1988, the House of Commons passed Bill C-89, sanctioning victim’s
rights and entitlements, compelling police organizations to be more responsive
to victims. This Bill also laid the ground work for the introduction of Victim
Impact Statements, designed to allow victims greater input into the sentencing
of offenders.
Alberta responded to this Bill in June 1990, by the introduction of the
Victim’s Program Assistance Act. This Act was replaced in 1996 by the
Victims of Crime Act, further strengthening the rights and entitlements of
victims in this province. This Act documents a standard treatment for victims,
establishes a fund to assist victim service programs, and allows for the
collection of provincial surcharges to financially assist victims of violent
crimes. Since the introduction of these Acts, there has been a steady increase
in the number of victim service units throughout the province. As of April
2003, there were 53 such police based units in Alberta serving 105 RCMP
detachments and municipal police services. Many other similar programs also
exist throughout Canada.
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