Victim Services Unit

Victim Services Program History

In 1992 the YWCA and the Peterborough Lakefield Community Police Service initiated a year long project to assist in identifying the needs of victims of crime.

The focus of the study was to identify and review the primary needs of, and ongoing support programs for, victims of crime and crisis. In January of 1995 the victim services program was implemented. The program operates from within the Peterborough Lakefield Community Police Service.

The Peterborough Lakefield Community Police Service remains committed to addressing the needs of persons victimized by crime and affected by circumstance and tragedy.

Presentations and information on Victim Services and Victim's Issues are available by request. All inquiries regarding the program are welcomed. 

Victim Services' Mandate

• Providing post incident and long term information and referral needs to victims of crime.
• Maintaining high quality services to crime victims by reinforcing officer awareness of victim's concerns.
• Maintaining liaison with community support network.
• Implementing and maintaining a comprehensive program to address the broad needs of victims.

Victim Support Line

Phone Number: 1.888.579.2888
Online: http://www.gov.on.ca/vicline

If you or someone close to you have been victimized by crime, we encourage you to call.

The Victim Support Line is one of a series of innovative services supporting Ontario's commitment to building a fairer, more effective justice system by:

• Ensuring the victims of crime receive the support and respect they deserve.
• Providing consistent services to those affected by crime through every stage of the justice system no matter where they are in Ontario.
• Restoring the balance between the rights of offenders and the needs of victims of crime.

Choose From These Options:

1. Speak directly to an information counsellor who will tell you about the services in your home community, such as sexual assault services, counselling programs, shelters, etc.
2. Learn how the criminal justice system works for victims by listening to a voice tape about arrest and release procedures, parole and probation, police responsibilities, and how to prepare to be a witness in a criminal trial.
3. Register with the automated Victim Notification Service to be automatically updated on when an offender is scheduled for release.
4. Express you concerns about an offender's return to the community. Any information about the impact of the offence on you, or any other concerns you have about every release, will be considered in release decisions about that offender.

Do not hesitate to call the Victim Support Line if you have any questions.  

Volunteer with the Victim Services Unit

Your time and effort is greatly appreciated, and the rewards of helping out are endless.

The Peterborough Lakefield Community Police Service is accepting applications from interested and qualified candidates to assist in providing information and support to victims of crime and tragic circumstances.

Qualifications:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Desire to understand the criminal justice system
• Aptitude for working with people, be dependable and non-judgmental
• Familiarity with Community Resources
• Be committed to victims issues
• Work well in stressful environments/conditions
• Computer competence

This is a 12-month placement, which will commence following successful completion of the required class training module.

Previous experience in the Criminal Justice or Social Services field is beneficial.

All Candidates MUST pocess and maintain a positive Police Security check and adhere to Confidentiality Guidelines.

Download our Volunteer Application - Victim Services Unit Volunteer Application