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Victim Services seeks volunteer assistance

Dec 13, 2018 | 4:00 PM

The courts are designed to deal with those accused of crimes, the Victim Services Unit is designed to deal with those affected by it.

The Prince Albert Police Service (PAPS) Victim Services Unit is currently seeking volunteers to join them in helping those who have been affected.

Volunteers will assist in a number of areas, and will be given special training to be able to handle high stress and difficult situations.

Alison Elsner, coordinator with PAPS Victim Services Unit, told paNOW volunteers are constantly needed, and fill an important role.

“We want passionate, caring, and understanding people who are interested in helping,” she said.  “They would be a victim support worker. They would do referrals to other agencies, court support [and] decide if victims need counselling services, that sort of thing.”

Elsner added the main role of Victim Services is to try and get as immediate as possible contact with victims to help diminish the possibility of re-victimization, and to be present as a support network for victims in the community.

Candidates must be over the age of 18, and able to pass a police security clearance as well as sign an oath of secrecy.

Elsner also noted there are currently only two active volunteers, far below the number they would like to see.

“If anyone is looking to volunteer it would be great for them to just come into our office,” she said. “If they have any questions we have a great lineup of staff here that can answer anything.”

Volunteers must commit to be available for a minimum of eight hours per month, and complete 40 hours of provided training.

Those interested in applying can do so in person, or via email.

 

brady.bateman@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @TheDigitalBirdy