Ratepayers learn about victims services

The Cramahe Ratepayers Association members know more about victim services thanks to a presentation made to the group at its June 19 meeting.

Laurie MacDonald from Peterborough Northumberland Victims Services (PNVS) explained how her group assists victims of crime or tragic circumstances.

Mrs. MacDonald explained that emergency service personnel often don't have time to deal with the aftermath of crimes and accidents. When that happens the police, ambulance and fire service people call the PNVS number. Volunteers from PNVS are on call 24/7. They are despatched to the scene and provide a whole range of services to victims and their relatives.

Families dealing with accidents, sudden deaths or suicide benefit from the calming presence of the PNVS volunteers. Mrs. MacDonald says people often don't know where to turn when abused or in unexpected crises. Her 50 trained volunteers have 60 hours of training and know the answers. They can get the right person at the right time. They know who can be called at any hour of the day or night. They can locate a locksmith, find clothing for fire victims, or lodging for anyone left homeless. They get the right people at the right time.

The PNVS volunteers make themselves available but only help if the victims want it. If they are needed by the families, they stay as long as needed. Sometimes it's only until family members arrive. Often they will go to a home with the police who are providing sudden death notification.

Victims services is funded by the Ontario Attorney General's Office. The concept was originally piloted in three areas in the province. There are now 48 victims service organizations operating in Ontario. The Peterborough Northumberland group serves from Brighton to Durham and past Peterborough in the north. They are linked with Community Care.

They can be contacted at 1-888-822-7729.