Advocates
The Role of Victim Services Advocates
After successful completion of the standardized volunteer training and evaluation, and other requirements, including security clearance by the appropriate police service, potential volunteers may be qualified as a Victim Services Advocate with your local Victim Services Unit (VSU).
Victim Services Units (VSUs) in Alberta are police-based programs that may be administered by a Board of Directors of a non-profit society or a municipal police service. VSUs provide support to victims and include staff (generally a Executive Director and may include additional staff members) and volunteer Advocates.
Once qualified, the volunteer Advocate will respond immediately to referrals to provide short term emotional support and practical assistance to victims of crime or tragic circumstance. The volunteer will ensure that appropriate options and/or referrals for longer term assistance are provided to the victim.
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