My New Website Victim/Witness Assistance Program

Contact VWAP at:

(613)264-8387

1-866-296-0166

The Perth Police Service has partnered with several community groups and associations in an effort to provide excellent service to the public. One of our community partners is the Victim/Witness Assistance Program (VWAP).

The criminal justice system can be a frightening and intimidating experience for victims and witnesses of crime. The Ministry of the Attorney General recognizes their importance in the criminal justice system and established the Victim/Witness Assistance Program in 1987 to assist them.

The Victim/Witness Assistance Program is designed to help those who are involved in a criminal case, either because they are victims of a crime or because they have witnessed a crime. Although the Program does not exclude any particular group of victims or witnesses, it offers services on a priority basis to those who have been most traumatized by a crime. Most of the Program’s clients are victims of partner assault, sexual assault or child abuse, elderly victims or families of homicide victims. Services are provided by the Program’s staff. They are sometimes assisted by students and volunteers. Evidence is never discussed with victims or witnesses.

VWAP was established by the Ministry of the Attorney General in 1987 to assist victims and witnesses of crimes

The mandate of the Victim/Witness Assistance Program is to provide information, assistance and support to victims of crime throughout the criminal justice process in order to improve their understanding of, and participation in, the criminal justice process. The Program also provides public education and outreach in the community.

VWAP staff works closely with the police and Crown Attorney to ensure that victims understand the court process, receive information about their case, have opportunities for input and are supported throughout the process. The Victim/Witness Assistance Program will:

• provide information about the court process and up-to-date information about their case;
• inform victims about counseling and support services available in the community;
• provide emotional support before and during court proceedings;
• provide court preparation and orientation;
• act as a liaison and advocate on behalf of victim/witnesses with police and Crowns;
• arrange for interpreters to work with victims; and
• provide information about Victim Impact Statements and the Criminal Injuries Compensation Board.

Child abuse victims require specialized care and attention and program staff often meet with them several times. The program has developed an information and activity book for child victim/witnesses.