VICTIMS SERVICES PROGRAM EXPANDS IN SOUTHEAST SASKATCHEWAN

More services for victims of crime will now be available in the southeast region of Saskatchewan.

The expanded victim services program will serve residents of the communities policed by the Weyburn Police Service, Weyburn RCMP detachment and the Stoughton Police Service.  Annual funding of more than $32,000 will support the establishment of a new part-time Victims Services Assistant Co-ordinator position, located in Weyburn.  The Southeast Regional Victims Services program currently assists victims of crime in the areas served by the Estevan Police Service and the RCMP areas of rural Estevan, Carlyle, Carnduff and Kipling.

Victims Services programs offer help and support to victims of crime or traumatic events immediately after a crime, and throughout the criminal justice process.

“Victims of crime have unique needs as a result of their experience, and it is our goal to enhance supports to victims in Saskatchewan communities,” Justice Minister Frank Quennell said.  “Through the work of victims services volunteers and staff, the criminal justice system is better able to respond to people in need, in a helpful and compassionate way.”

Currently, 18 police-based Victims Services programs receive funding from Saskatchewan Justice.  Almost 90 per cent of Saskatchewan’s population will now have access to police-based victims services. More than 300 victims services volunteers provide emotional support, information and advice to victims of crime in Saskatchewan.

“We are pleased to be working closely with our partners to enhance Victim Services Programs in these communities,” Quennell said.  “With the support of victims services volunteers and staff, victims are able to begin the healing process.”

April 22 to 28, 2007 is Victims of Crime Awareness Week in Saskatchewan.  This year’s theme is “It’s time to listen”.

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For more information, contact:

Andrew Dinsmore
Justice
Regina
Phone: 306-787-8606
Email: adinsmore@justice.gov.sk.ca