Police & Community Partners
Referral Process
How police and community partners can connect people affected by crime and trauma with Greater Victoria Police Victim Services.
Who to Refer
Who Should Be Referred
GVPVS supports victims of crime and trauma throughout the Greater Victoria region, including family members and witnesses.
Victims of Crime
People who have experienced a crime and could benefit from emotional support, practical assistance, information or referrals.
Family Members & Witnesses
Those close to a victim, or who witnessed a crime or traumatic event, and are coping with its impact.
People Affected by Trauma
Individuals affected by sudden death, critical incidents or other traumatic events attended by police.
Please note: some situations fall outside our mandate — for example, violent situations where the parties have not been separated, people already receiving crisis support from another service, or individuals in acute mental health crisis, who will be referred to the appropriate services. Child victims of physical or sexual assault who are not under their parent’s care and control fall under the mandate of the Ministry of Children and Family Development.
Before You Refer
Information Required
Referral information should include the details GVPVS needs to understand who is being referred, how they can be contacted, and the nature of the support that may be required.
Who Is Being Referred
Name and contact details, including any safe times or ways to reach the person.
File Details
Referring police agency or organization and the police file number, where applicable.
Nature of Support
A brief description of the incident and the type of support that may be needed, including any safety concerns.
Consent & Needs
Whether the person knows a referral is being made, and any language, interpretation or accessibility needs.
Next Steps
What Happens After a Referral
01
Referral Received
Referral information is submitted securely and reviewed by authorized GVPVS staff.
02
We Reach Out
A member of our team contacts the person using the information provided in the referral.
03
Support Begins
We provide emotional and practical support, information and options, and referrals to community resources.
04
Ongoing Follow-Up
Where needed, we continue to provide follow-up support, including information about the justice system and court support.
Timing
Urgent vs. Non-Urgent
Urgent
If anyone is in immediate danger, call 911. Online referrals are not monitored as an emergency service. For time-sensitive support, call GVPVS directly at 250-995-7351. After hours, VictimLinkBC is available 24/7 at 1-800-563-0808.
Non-Urgent
For all other referrals, use the secure online referral form. Our team will review the referral and follow up with the person being referred.
Start a Referral →