Victim Service Advocates assist victims of crime or tragedy. Assistance may provide support through telephone contact, home visits, court accompaniment or directly assisting police members in circumstances of tragedy or severe stress and trauma. Volunteer roles and responsibilities are contingent up on training and experience.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Make contact with victims of crime offering assistance and support through phone or correspondence.
- Provide crime prevention resources to prevent further victimization and encourage proactive community involvement.
- Directly assist Police members where victims of crime experience severe stress and trauma particularly where there is no family or friend support base available. (ie. Sudden deaths, suicide, armed robbery or sudden infant death)
- Assist Victims of Crime with Victim Impact Statements.
- Provide follow-up assistance regarding status of a case, stolen property or court proceedings.
- Assist victims of crime with court preparation in order to facilitate familiarity with court procedures in order to alleviate potential fears and concerns.
Skills Required:
- Residence in the area served by the Divisional Station.
- Demonstrated calm, pleasant, and efficient telephone manner.
- Demonstrated customer service habits and ability assist clients in a personable satisfactory fashion.
- Ability to understand the mandate and services of the EPS, as well as the hierarchical chain of command and make appropriate referrals within that structure.
- Excellent grasp of English language.
- Solid writing and verbal communication skills.
- Demonstrated ability to maintain strict confidentiality
- Punctual and dependable.
- Self-motivated and ability to take appropriate initiative.
- Familiarity with Community Resources.
- Demonstrated ability to work as a team player.
- Must attend all required training events.
- Ability to learn computer programs as required.
Locations:
South West Division
West Division
South East Division
Downtown Division
North Division
Contact:
Contact your local Divisional Station, visit the Victim Services Website or email vsu@edmontonpolice.ca