WHO WE ARE AND WHAT WE DO

Established in 1992, Victim Services is a Branch of the Hamilton Police Service.  It is the only 24-hour crisis intervention service 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 trauma such as homicides, suicides, sudden death, assaults, sexual assaults,   domestic violence, traffic and fire fatalities, robberies, and harassment.

Victim Services Branch staff and specially trained volunteers provide practical assistance, emotional support and referrals for additional community resources.

If you or a family member is a victim of crime and/or trauma and you need someone to talk to, please call our 24 hr line at (905) 546-4904.  We are here to assist you with emotional support, information and community resources.

Services:  Around the Clock Intervention (24/7)

We reach out to victims of crime and trauma 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 life once an incident has occurred. 

Short-Term Counselling

Crisis counselling is provided by Victim Services Branch staff both in the office, at a client’s residence or other locations as necessary.  Information about community services, resources and referrals are provided that empowers people to make informed choices.

Domestic Violence Emergency Response System (DVERS*)

In conjunction with a community service by ADT Canada Inc. and the High Risk Domestic Violence Community Advisory 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 the Victim Services Branch directly to inquire. (* Certain eligibility requirements apply.)

Education and Awareness Promotion of Victimology Issues

Victim Services provides internal training to Hamilton Police Service Officers on victims’ issues and the services of the Victim Services Branch.  Victim Services provides external community training when requested on victimology related topics.

Trauma Bear Program

The Victim 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 crime and trauma.

Volunteering – The Role of the Volunteer

Our volunteers provide service to victims of crime and trauma when civilian staff members are not on duty.

Our volunteers have a very important role in providing emotional support for victims of crime and trauma.  Volunteers are not professional counsellors or therapists.  They are community minded citizens who are excellent listeners and are both compassionate and empathetic.  Volunteers are an important part of the Hamilton Police Service as indicated in our mission statement of recognizing the commitment, contribution and importance of all our members, volunteers and community partners.  Volunteers receive an initial training program followed by ongoing professional development training.

Interested volunteer candidates are encouraged to contact Victim Services at (905) 546-4904 to apply.

“I have witnessed the reaction of such gratefulness from victims, because we were able to assist them in their greatest time of need.  How humbled I am to hear “Thank you very much.  You have really helped me.”  I am very satisfied that I have joined a volunteer organization such as this, as it really does make a positive difference to someone in immediate need.” - Volunteer with Victim Services Branch

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

VICTIM SERVICES BRANCH

Tel 905-546-4904

Fax 905-546-4914

Hamilton Police Service

Central Police Station

155 King William Street

Box 1060, LCD 1

Hamilton, Ontario  L8N 4C1

www.hamiltonpolice.on.ca