Support and assistance for victims and witnesses of violent crime
Coping with the effects of being a victim of or witnessing a crime can be traumatic. You may find it difficult to complete day-to-day tasks or feel on top of things. If you have suffered a physical or emotional injury or financial loss as a result of a violent crime, the cohealth Western Victims Assistance Program can support you to manage and recover from the experience.
The program can support people:
- who have experienced all forms of assault, family violence and culpable driving
- who have witnessed a violent crime and
- close family members of a person who has died as a result of a homicide
We tailor our service to meet the needs of each person to help with:
- emotional and physical support – practical assistance
- counselling
- providing victims with a voice
- dealing with the criminal justice system
- understanding the psychology behind the crime to help recovery
- links to other services including counselling and legal advice.
Where can I get this service?
The cohealth Western Victims Assistance Program is located in Footscray and we also have staff collocated at:
Sunshine Police Station (497 Ballarat Rd, Sunshine)
Werribee Police Station (134 Princes Hwy, Werribee)
Melton Police Station (243 Station Rd, Melton)
What do I need to do?
Contact us on 8398 4178 for information or to make an appointment. Referrals from police, family violence or other services are welcomed.
The Department of Justice and Regulation can also offer information, assistance and support via their Helpline: 1800 819 817
What will it cost me?
There is no cost for this service.
The video Once Upon a Crime explores symptoms and strategies for recovery.
