Victim services key component of LPS
When I started in policing, the concept of victim services was completely foreign. Police officers did their best to comfort and support victims, but of course our focus was on the investigation.
That’s not to say we didn’t care — I think most of us become police officers to help people — but once the victim’s statement had been taken or a next of kin notification made, that’s essentially where the interaction ended until there was something to update or it was time for court.
Fast forward to present day and that approach has changed significantly. Many police agencies across North America are bolstered by volunteer crisis support workers who work directly with victims and witnesses of crime or tragedy in the first few hours after an event. This is particularly important for individuals who have been victimized but do not have family or a strong support network to rely on. Our crisis support workers are not counsellors or mediators, but they are available 24/7 to assist with immediate practical needs and also help victims navigate the criminal justice system.
The LPS Victim/Witness Services Unit was established 1991 and has been internationally recognized for its innovation, dedication and excellence. In 2010 it was the recipient of the International Association of Chiefs of Police Excellence in Victim Services Award which recognizes agencies that exemplify a philosophy where victims are at the centre of problem-solving efforts and use effective partnerships, training methods and other strategies to enhance the response to victims of crime. LPS is extremely fortunate to have such a dedicated group of volunteers and we are currently in the process of recruiting for a few more!
If you are a compassionate person ready to take on a unique opportunity that truly makes a difference in people’s lives then I would encourage you to attend an information session on Wednesday, Sept. 26 to learn more. The session is scheduled for 7 p.m. at the Lethbridge Senior Citizens Organization (500 11 St. S.). It will be hosted by VSU manager Darcie James, who will provide information about the program and answer questions prospective volunteers may have.
To be eligible, volunteers must be a minimum of 18 years old, complete an application form, undergo criminal record and reference checks, hold a valid driver’s licence, be willing to commit uninterrupted for two years and participate in job shadowing. Applicants will then undergo an interview before being accepted in the training program.
Crisis support workers are available 24/7 and work on a call-out basis as well as during scheduled office hours. All volunteers must be able to commit to two-three 12-hour shifts per month and attend a team meeting the second Monday of each month. The training program includes more than 100 hours of material on areas including general police procedures, suicide awareness, domestic violence, sexual assault, bereavement, organized crime and the criminal justice system.
To learn more about the program, please set aside a couple of hours on September 26 to attend the information session. If you are unable to attend, but would like more information, please contact Darcie James at 403-330-5023 or email darcie.james@lethbridgepolice.ca.