VICTIM SERVICES BRANCH
905.546.4904
Who we are and what we do
Established in 1992, Victim Services is a Branch within the Investigative Services Division of the Hamilton Police Service. There are three civilian full-time positions and approximately 80 volunteers. We are the only 24-hour crisis intervention agency for victims of crime and trauma serving the residents of the City of Hamilton.
We respond to the immediate needs of people who have been victimized by crime and/or/tragedy such as homicides, suicides, sudden death, assault, sexual assaults, traffic and fire fatalities, robberies and harassment.
We work with thousands of people each year, with the majority or referrals coming from Police Officers. The remainder of referrals comes from other community services and self-referrals.
Our name and number are printed on the back of every Hamilton Police Service business card. The Victim Services Branch has been the recipient of several prominent awards for innovative and quality program delivery to victims of crime.
Around the Clock Intervention (24/7)
We reach out to victims of crimes and tragedies with 24-hour crisis intervention. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations receive critical crisis intervention as well as support, information and referrals necessary to assist victims in dealing with the trauma of the incident. We know that the earlier the intervention is activated for a victim, the faster a person will regain control over their lives once an incident has occurred.
Short-Term Counselling
Counselling is provided by Victim Services Branch staff both in office, at client’s residence or other locations as necessary. Information about community resources and referrals are also provided that enable people to make informed choices.
Domestic Violence Emergency Response System (DVERS)
In conduction with a community service by ADT Canada Inc. and the operational High Risk Domestic Violence Team, victims of high risk domestic violence are eligible to apply for a personal home alarm to enhance an overall fluid safety plan. Police, community agencies and individuals may contact Victim Services Branch directly to inquire. (Certain eligibility requirements apply).
Education and Awareness Promotion of Victimology Issues
Victim Services staff provide training to Hamilton Police Officers on victimology issues, domestic violence and the services of the Victim Services Branch in general. Training occurs throughout the year with new police officer recruits, General Investigative Techniques, Major Case Management, Auxiliary, Domestic Violence Officer Training and during squad parades or “Sunday schools” to front-line Police Officers.
Victim Services staff also provide external training when requested on a variety of victimology related topics.
Trauma Bear Program
The Victims Services Branch administers the Trauma Bear Program by ensuring all Hamilton Police Service vehicles contain Trauma Bears. Police Officers and Victim Services provide Trauma Bears to children at scenes to provide some comfort during the aftermath of tragedies and crimes.
Volunteering with Victim Services Branch