ViCTIM SERVICES unit
About
CRIME… It is a word we all know. We see the results of crime in the daily news. We may also see the victims of crime and feel their suffering, their anger, their confusion and their frustration. Our Victim Assistance and Emergency Social Services Unit supports victims of crime and trauma along with their families.
We support victims impacted by all crime categories, including homicide, assault, wife assault and sexual assault, robbery, break and enter, theft and motor vehicle accidents. Police frequently use this service to support surviving family members following a sudden death notification, to assist a woman and her children to access a transition house and to assist people evacuated from their home following a fire.
Peoples’ needs following a traumatic event can be complex and varied. We tailor our support services according to each person’s own priorities.
Services include the following:
- immediate on-site crisis and trauma response
- emotional support
- information about the case
- assistance negotiating the criminal justice system
- referrals and linkage to other resources and agencies
- court information, support and accompaniment
- assistance with forms including Victim Impact Statements and Crime Victim Assistance Application
The Unit is available 24-hours a day, 365 days a year. Referrals come from the police and from community agencies. Services are provided by our professional staff and by trained volunteer caseworkers. Individuals requesting assistance can contact the service directly by phoning 604-529-2525 or email VAU@nwpolice.org.
Download the Victim Assistance Unit brochure.
Mission and Vision
Mission
Under the operational direction of the New Westminster Police Department, working in liaison with the New Westminster Victim Assistance Association, staff and volunteers provide integrated services to reduce the impact of crime and trauma on victims and their families in New Westminster.
Vision
We envision New Westminster as a community where all victims have improved safety and reduced risk of further victimization, access to the support, the information and referrals they need to assist in their recovery and enhance their willingness to participate with the criminal justice system.
Contact us
Phone: 604-529-2525 Fax: 604-529-2478
