This "tip sheet" from the National Mass Violence Victimization Resource Center defines the role of victim assistance professionals (VAPs) in preparing for mass violence incidents (MVIs).
The tip sheet notes that its recommendations for a variety of VAPs may apply to all VAPS; however, other tips may be relevant only to a subset of VAPs, such as court-based victim advocates or community-based VAPs. VAPS can contribute to the creation of state and local emergency response plans that provide a central role for VAPs in preparations for MVIs. Five specific VAP tasks in this effort are described. A VAP can also develop and update a roster of VAPs who are trained to respond to MVIs. Such VAPs can mobilize volunteers for shifts at the Response Center and Family Assistance Center. VAPs can provide information on the U.S. Justice Department's Anti-terrorism and Emergency Assistance Program to state victim assistance administrators, state victim compensation administrators, and agencies involved in MVI responses. Six VAP tasks are outlined for the education of VAPs and partner agencies that respond to MVIs. They relate to accessing federal and national sources for victim/survivor assistance. Other VAP tasks pertain to evidence-based, trauma-informed training for VAPs in responding to MVIs; the development of cross-training curricula and programs for partner professionals about the role of VAPs in MVI response; preparation of "go kits" for victim/survivor assistance agencies; publicizing the availability of a toolkit for "Helping Victims of Mass Violence and Terrorism" from the federal Office for Victims of Crime; the promotion of victim compensation for victims of violent crime; and the development and implementation of services for victims with disabilities or limitations that affect their communication ability.