Providing Support
1800 VICTIM Helpdesk
Since January 2015 , VSS has been providing initial support to victims of crime through our free call 1800 VICTIM Helpdesk . Helpdesk staff screen , assess and respond to the needs of callers . They provide information and referrals which can include :
100 The number of callers the Helpdesk is able to assist per day
• information on victims of crime compensation
• information on common reactions , the impact of crime and coping strategies
• guidance on reporting crime
• assistance with Victim Impact Statements
• procedural information on the judicial system .
A two-tiered design was successfully implemented following an initial trial in September 2014 whereby callers speak initially with a Helpdesk operator to discuss their circumstance and , if sufficient to their needs , obtain procedural information and referrals . Callers who present with complex needs or in distress maybe immediately transferred to a VSS Counsellor who can assist them further .
Counselling Services
The VSS Counselling and Support Service ( VCSS ) is funded through the South Australian Victims of Crime Fund to provide counselling and support to victims of crime and their family members living in SA . In 2016 the service celebrated its 37th year .
VCSS counsellors are able to provide services to victims of crime throughout the State through a range of service delivery options including face-to-face counselling , telephone counselling , and assistance with the preparation of Victim Impact Statements .
VCSS is a free service that victims of crime can access 9.00 to 5.00 Monday to Friday via our 1800 VICTIM Helpdesk ( 1800 842846 ) or online referral via our website at www . victimsa . org / get-help
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