NCJ Number
133215
Journal
Criminology Australia Volume: 2 Issue: 4 Dated: (April/May, 1991) Pages: 5-6
Date Published
1991
Length
2 pages
Annotation
This report outlines how a victim support scheme could be established in Murray Bridge (Australia) based on the United Kingdom system.
Abstract
The UK has established 360 victim support schemes which last year assisted 500,000 people. Their well-established system provides a prompt service for victims which should be implemented Australia-wide. Essential in establishing a victim support service is the cooperation of the local police as it is the police who must perceive that victims will be provided with a confidential and efficient service. The first task of the Murray Bridge management committee would be to appoint a part-time coordinator who should be a qualified social worker. The coordinator's responsibilities would include the selection and training of volunteers, receiving referrals from the police, and arranging for a volunteer to visit each victim within 24 hours of the offense. The Murray Bridge service should be affiliated with the Victims of Crime Service thereby ensuring that proper standards and procedures are observed.