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Cold Lake Victim Services sees rise in files

More residents are turning to the Cold Lake Victim Services Unit (VSU) for help. Last year, victim services advocates responded to 956 files, 71 more than in 2015.

More residents are turning to the Cold Lake Victim Services Unit (VSU) for help.

Last year, victim services advocates responded to 956 files, 71 more than in 2015. It's an increase that program manager Dave Zimmerman is proud of, as he believes it means word about the service is getting out.

“I think people know we exist and we're here to help when they become a victim of crime. The second reason is that our relationship with the RCMP is outstanding. They trust us and know they can count on us.”

Since 2007, the local unit has seen an annual increase in the number of files they receive. The assistance they provide ranges from helping victims through the criminal justice system, providing court support, making sure victims know their rights, and informing clients of the different packages available through the Alberta government for financial benefits.

Victim services will also refer clients to other agencies within the community if need be.

“(The victim services unit) has an incredible impact, helping people at their worst and helping them through the process. It might not be a victim of crime, but of tragedy. We help people out with sudden death notifications, if someone dies of suicide or a car accident,” explained Zimmerman.

Of the 956 files in 2016, 200 were domestic and family related, an increase of over 50 from the previous year. Advocates also responded to 181 domestic violence cases, which is down just slightly from the 197 in 2015.

“Domestic violence is when there's charges, or could be charges, where violence has occurred…where someone has harmed another person. Domestic and family related would be an argument, threatening, or yelling,” Zimmerman noted.

There was also a jump in assault files to 122 last year, as well as 107 under theft and fraud.

The majority of the cases, 617, came directly from the City of Cold Lake, compared to 527 in 2015. More people on Cold Lake First Nations (CLFN) are taking advantage of the VSU, up 17 cases to 166. The remainder came from the eastern part of the MD of Bonnyville, Elizabeth Métis Settlement (EMS), and outside referrals.

To ensure that those living on the reserves continue using the service to its full extent, Zimmerman has brought on an outreach worker for CLFN and EMS.

“What that person would be responsible for is going out to the designated satellite offices and being available to the community members there.”

Zimmerman added they will attend community gathering such as soup and bannock days at the Dene Wellness and English Bay centres.

“They would go there in case people have questions for victim services. It's very important because some people don't have access to vehicles and they want to meet people first hand.”

Part of the outreach worker's role will include attending the schools to participate in events like bike rodeos, talks on bullying awareness with the RCMP, or putting on elder abuse presentations.

Currently, there are three staff members and nine advocates at Cold Lake VSU. Between the volunteer advocates and board members, a total of 2,641 hours were put into meetings, advocate-client interactions, call-outs and community events in 2016.

However, they're always looking for more advocates should someone feel it's the right fit for them.

“I always feel victim services is a calling; not just a volunteer opportunity,” said Zimmerman.

This year marks the 25th anniversary since the first Bonnyville – Grand Centre VSU was formed. While nothing is confirmed yet, they are planning a little something to celebrate the anniversary and all that victim services has done for the community over the years.

“We've had an unreal impact in the community, but at the same time we want to thank the community for using us and believing in this well-needed service. Especially the RCMP and Military Police, we get the majority of files from them. For them to count on us and trust us is an unbelievable feeling.”

For more information on the Cold Lake VSU, go to www.coldlakevictimservices.com.

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