| Crisis
Response |
VRVSS
provides 24 hour, 7 day per week, on-call assistance to victims requiring
immediate trauma intervention, emotional support and practical assistance.
Volunteer advocates are paged by RCMP members through referrals from other
community agencies including the Vulcan Regional Hospital, Vulcan &
District Family & Community Support Services, Fire and Emergency Medical
personnel. When responding to a crisis call, advocates work in teams of two.
|
| General
Assistance |
Advocates
provide non-judgmental support and practical assistance including formalized
court preparation sessions for crown witnesses, the accompaniment of victims to
court, the transportation of victims as required, information on bail hearings,
and assistance with the completion of victim impact statements, restitution
claims and applications for financial benefits.
|
| Referral |
Advocates are
trained in appropriate community resources for victims who require additional
or complimentary services, including the referral of victims of crime and
trauma to mental health professionals.
|
| Information |
Advocates
inform victims of their rights when dealing with the criminal justice system,
keeping these individuals abreast of developments with criminal investigations
and all court proceedings.
|
| Public
Education |
The VRVSS
promotes crime prevention awareness through the provision of preventive
information to victims of crime, conducting community presentations and
educational seminars, and acting as a resource for other community agencies who
may come into contact with victims.
|
| Critical Incident Stress
Debriefings |
The VRVSS coordinates and
facilitates Critical Incident Stress Debriefings in the Vulcan County in
conjunction with Alberta Mental Health and Vulcan & District Family &
Community Support Services.
|