The Northeast Regional Victim Services program has been in operation in Nipawin, Carrot River, Melfort and Tisdale since June of 1996. Expansion to include Cumberland House, Hudson Bay and Porcupine Plain was launched in 1999. Offices are located in the R.C.M.Police detachments where the bulk of our files are referred from.   As the program continues to expand to meet the needs of our communities we are receiving more and more referrals from outside agencies and community people and the expansion to Rose Valley, Kelvington and Yellow Quill First Nation was announced in October of 2006.

Paid staff consist of a Program Coordinator and Assistant Coordinator based out of  Tisdale as well as a part-time Program Assistant based in Cumberland House. The program is overseen by a Board of Directors with representatives from each of the communities involved.

To date we have 35 volunteer Victim Support workers throughout the northeast region. Each volunteer completes 40 hours of mandatory training. Volunteers have also participated in a number of additional workshops.  All volunteers must pass the R.C.M.Police enhanced security clearance and are bound by an Oath of Confidentiality.

Victim Support workers are asked to assist in a variety of situations, some examples are: to accompany the R.C.M.Police when notifying next of kin in the loss of a loved one. In such situations they provide a listening ear, comfort, support, information and any practical help the family may need at that time. Victims Support workers will stay with the individual(s) until family arrives. They remain on call to assist with any other help required. Volunteers are trained to provide appropriate support and assistance in all aspects of crimes against people including domestic violence and sexual assault situations. They provide information regarding case progress, justice procedures, victims of domestic violence act and obtaining peace bonds. Support and assistance is given at the time of the incident, during statements and hospital accompaniment. Referrals are made to shelters and counselors. The impact of property crimes is often much greater than victims anticipate, particularly for the elderly. Volunteers ensure victims receive the support and help appropriate to their needs. For victims that need to testify in court many hours are spent helping them to understand the court process, their role and providing court accompaniment. A further aim of our program is to prevent victimization through education and participating in crime prevention initiatives.

Across the northeast region in 2009/2010 volunteers worked over 935 hours, assisted 824 clients and 435 referrals that were referred to us and 6012 services provided to clients.  These included: information, support, referrals and victim/witness services. There is no doubt that the success of this program is due to the hard work and commitment of our volunteers who pride themselves on providing a quality, professional service.

If you need help or more information or wish to volunteer as a Victim Support worker or Board Member  please contact your local R.C.M.Police Detachment or call the main office in Tisdale (306-878-3819).  The Victim Services website is www.nervs.ca.