Crime Victim Assistance Program
The Crime Victim Assistance Program is a government-funded program that provides financial assistance to individuals seeking counselling following traumatic events. You or someone you know might have been a victim of crime or perhaps you were a witness to a crime. This can lead to a significant impact on our mental wellbeing and everyday functioning.
If you are a victim of a crime, your experience may vary depending on the nature and severity of the crime, as well as your location. We serve folks across BC virtually and in-person services are offered in our Port Coquitlam and Surrey offices.
Some things to keep in mind if you are experiencing abuse, assault or another form of crime is that your Immediate Safety is important. Your safety and the safety of others around you should not be compromised. If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or your local emergency number.
Report the Crime: You should report the crime to the police as soon as possible. Provide them with as much information as you can about the incident, including details about the perpetrator, location, and any evidence you may have.
Medical Attention: If you are injured, seek medical attention immediately. It's important to document any injuries for both your well-being and potential legal proceedings.
Supportive Services: Victim advocates, victim service workers and social service organizations may be available to provide emotional support and practical assistance. These organizations can help you understand your rights, find shelter if necessary, and our team is here to provide you counselling services and being community oriented, WE DO NOT CHARGE ANY TOP UPS to our CVAP clients.
Legal Assistance: Depending on the nature of the crime, you may need to engage with the criminal justice system as a witness. In some cases, you might want to seek legal counsel, especially if you are pursuing legal action against the perpetrator.
Protection Orders: In cases of domestic violence or stalking, you may be eligible for a restraining order or protection order to keep the perpetrator away from you.
Victim Compensation Programs: Some jurisdictions have victim compensation programs that can help victims cover medical expenses, counselling, lost wages, and other costs associated with the crime and luckily here in BC, you can seek this help.
Restitution: If the perpetrator is convicted, the court may order them to pay restitution to cover your losses and expenses resulting from the crime.
We provide Counselling and Therapy after you’ve been exposed to crime: Emotional support is crucial for victims of crime. Our team offers services in multiple languages to help you cope with the emotional and psychological impact of the crime.
Court Proceedings: If the case goes to court, you may be asked to testify as a witness. You should work with the prosecutor and victim advocates to prepare for this process.
Follow-Up: The aftermath of a crime can be a long and challenging process. Continue to seek support and resources as needed.
Several of our counsellors are registered therapists with the Crime Victim's Assistance Program and we use trauma informed approaches like EMDR, DBT, Somatic work to help you process what you might have gone through and we are here to guide you through the emotions:
If you have already been approved for CVAP funding, and are interested in counselling with us, please contact us here to be connected with a counsellor for a free consultation and to book your first session.
If you or an immediate family member have been a victim or witness to violence, including physical and sexual abuse, you may be eligible for financial assistance to cover partial or full cost of counselling through CVAP.
Victim's Service workers are available to offer assistance applying for CVAP funding and to answer any questions you may have. Even if you’re not sure if you have been a victim of crime, you can call VictimLinkBC at 1-800-563-0808 for assistance.