What does the VQRP mean for victims of violent crime in your community?

Who is a Victim?

A victim is:

• Someone whose personal rights have been violated by criminal, violent or aggressive acts;
• Family and close friends of person(s) who have been injured or killed as a result of a serious accident;
• Family and close friends of person(s) who have been injured or killed as a result of crime;
• Someone who has viewed or been affected by a violent or traumatic incident;
• Family and close friends of person(s) who have been injured or killed as a result of disaster or tragic circumstance

Victims may suffer from the shock of a crime or trauma for weeks, months or even years. Victims may suffer physical injury, financial loss, experience such emotions as anger, guilt, fright, confusion, helplessness and/or hopelessness. They may not know where to turn for help, which is why there are victim services.

Victims Bill of Rights

An Act Respecting Victims of Crime

Ontario Bill 23, 1995

VICTIMS HAVE THE RIGHT TO...

• Be treated with courtesy, compassion and respect
• Be kept apprised of the investigation
• Participate in the judicial process
• Request information about services and remedies
• Know dates and places of significant proceedings
• Be notified of offender release, parole or escape
• Expect the prompt return of property
• Be interviewed by gender specific investigators in the case of sexual assault
• Make representations to the court by way of a Victim Impact Statement
• Apply for Criminal Injuries Compensation

www.crcvc.ca/docs/vicrights.pdf

Signs of Victimization

Adult Common Psychological Or Emotional Symptoms

1. Re-Experiencing the Crime

• recurrent and intrusive memories of the crime
• recurrent dreams of the crime
• flashbacks
• intense discomfort with events that remind you of the crime

2. Avoidance Reactions

• avoiding thoughts or feelings associated with the crime
• avoiding activities or situations that remind you of the crime
• inability to recall an important aspect of the crime
• decreased interest in people or activities
• feeling cut-off from yourself or others (restricted range of feelings)
• hopelessness about the future

3. Recurring Symptoms

• sleep disturbance
• change in eating habits
• crying easily
• difficulty concentrating (extreme alertness or easily startled)
• physical problems (e.g., headaches, stomach pains, muscle tension)

4. Other Common Symptoms

• guilt
• shame
• depression
• increased family conflict
• fear of it happening again
• increased alcohol or drug use
• shock and/or denial
• difficulty coping with ordinary life
• odd or irrational behavior

The Additional Reactions That Children Or Adolescents
May Experience

• regression to younger behaviors
• enuresis (bed-wetting)
• crankiness, clinging, possessiveness
• afraid of sleeping in their own bed
• increased crying over simple things
• night terrors
• separation anxiety (fear of leaving you)
• refusal to go to school

Ways To Help You Respond To Trauma

• alternate periods of physical exercise with relaxation
• structure your time, keep occupied
• seek support and help from others
• maintain as normal a schedule as possible
• refrain from making any life changes right now
• eat well balanced and regular meals
• keep hydrated - drink plenty of water
• stay away from drugs and alcohol

What Victims Can Expect From VCARS

• Confidential, non-judgmental support
• Well-trained, crisis support
• Immediate support available at their home, hospital, police station, or other safe location
• Up-to-date information about services
• Practical help in managing the crisis

Who is a Victim?