Our History ~ Service Since 1990

The Victim Services concept is founded on the belief that individuals who have experienced victimization benefit significantly from receiving help as soon as possible after a crisis. Emergency services workers, such as police, fire, and healthcare professionals, are essential in making these services readily available to victims.

In 1990, a police officer who had previously worked with this model in another region introduced Victim Services to Haldimand and Norfolk. Recognizing the benefits such services could bring to our diverse rural communities, he understood the challenges people face when accessing support after a traumatic event. From isolation and transportation difficulties to communication barriers caused by services being limited to certain areas, accessing support can be especially challenging during times of emotional distress.

Victim Services has been operational since 1990 and has received funding since 1993. Our original staff members have achieved nationally accredited designations as National Crisis Responders and National Crisis Advocates from the National Organization for Victim Assistance. As lifelong learners, they also possess numerous additional specialties, certificates, and relevant degrees in the social service field. Our crisis advocates are extensively trained in communication, crisis intervention, traumatic stress, and victim issues.

We work in cooperation with the OPP, fire, and other emergency services within Haldimand County, Norfolk County, and the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation Reserve to support a diverse range of victims and their families. Embracing a “no-wrong-door” policy with one-step access at the community level, Victim Services administers and facilitates various victim services programs. We provide education, information about the criminal justice system, crime prevention strategies, practical help, emotional first aid, advocacy, and referrals. Our mission is to lead the development of partnerships to build and maintain healthier communities.