The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) Victim Services Unit (VSU) received an Attorney General’s 2022-23 Victim Services Award of Distinction.
The award acknowledges the outstanding contributions made by individuals and organizations to support victims of crime as well as raises awareness of issues surrounding victims in Ontario.
“Our Service is immensely proud of, and grateful for, the work of our Victim Services Unit personnel and volunteers in supporting victims of crime and tragedy in our region,” says Deputy Chief Jeff Hill. “Their efforts have given those affected by this immensely personal crime the resources they need to seek justice and place them on a path to healing.”
The VSU is comprised of civilian members and more than 60 trained volunteers. They all were recognized for developing a sexual assault program that places Victim Services as the first point of contact for those wishing to report a sexual assault.
Other elements of HRPS’ program include development and use of a Sexual Assault Information Guide; which provides accurate and up-to-date information on options, the investigative and criminal justice processes, and community-based resources. The guide, which has become a vital reference for frontline service providers, is available for download here.
Since its inception in 2018, this made-in-Halton program has been adopted by other police services in Ontario, including Ottawa, London, Hamilton, and Guelph.
For more about the Attorney General’s Victim Services Award of Distinction, click here.
Sexual assault is described as any touching of another person without their consent where the touching is of a sexual nature, or where the sexual integrity of the victim is violated. A sexual assault can range from unwanted touching to sexual assault involving penetration.
There is no statute of limitation when it comes to reporting a sexual assault. This means that no matter how long ago the sexual assault happened, you can still report it to police for investigation.
Victims of violence and/or sexual assault can contact the Halton Regional Police Service Victim Services Unit at 905-825-4777 for support.
Additional information can be found in the Sexual Assault Information Guide.
A valuable resource for information is also available on the Survivors Voices website.
