In times of crisis, B.C. victims of crime need to know where they can go for help.

While the crime rate remains near its lowest level in decades, crime still results in varying kinds of victimization and trauma – and when it does, wherever the victims are in our province, VictimLinkBC is just a mouse click or a toll-free call away. Even though many people don’t know where to turn in their community for help in the wake of crime, they do know about this 24/7 referral service: in 2014-15, it served more than 12,000 people.

As Canada and B.C. mark Victims and Survivors of Crime Week, they are recognizing those who have been victimized and thanking the front-line workers and volunteers who are there to support them. VictimLinkBC is among those services helping victims to become survivors by providing access to the services and supports they need.

Reflecting B.C.’s diversity, VictimLinkBC (1 800 563-0808, www.VictimLinkBC.ca) provides services in more than 110 languages, including 17 North American Aboriginal languages. Victims of any type of crime can receive referral services; as well, victims of family and sexual violence can receive immediate crisis support.

VictimLinkBC staff provide referrals to transition housing and counselling, plus information on crime prevention, safety planning and protection orders, among other topics. Importantly, when people aren’t sure if what happened to them was a crime, VictimLinkBC can help to provide clarity and advise on what to do next.

The Province invests more than $70 million in key prevention and intervention services and supports – like VictimLinkBC – for victims of crime each year.

Quote:

Mike Morris, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General –

“The front-line workers and volunteers who keep programs like VictimLinkBC running 24 hours a day, seven days a week are the unsung heroes. Services like this are about making our communities safer and giving our most vulnerable people the support they need at a critical time. We all hope for a day when there are no victims of crime, but until it comes, accessible services that can provide everything from a willing listener to safe shelter will be vital.”

Quick Facts:

• More than $7.3 million in civil and criminal forfeiture grants was provided for programs throughout the province this year. Over half of this total ($3.7 million) directly supports projects that align with the Vision for a Violence Free BC strategy.
• The Violence Free BC strategy outlines the path to creating a province where all women have the supports they need to help prevent violence, escape from violent situations, and recover if they have been victims.

Learn More:

To access VictimLinkBC online: www.VictimLinkBC.ca

To email or call VictimLinkBC: VictimLinkBC@bc211.ca or 1-800-563-0808

Information on helping to prevent domestic violence and sexual assault, and resources for victims: www.saysomethingbc.ca