VSS Annual Report 15-16 VSS Annual Report 15-16 | Page 7

Victim Support Service (VSS) is a statewide, independent not-for-profit organisation in South Australia that has been providing support to people affected by crime and family/domestic abuse since 1979. Our specialist teams provide practical and therapeutic support to help people to cope and recover from the effects of crime. Our services are free and available to any adult in SA, whether or not the crime has been reported and regardless of when it happened. With almost 40 years’ experience, we know the impact that crime has on people’s lives and what it takes to help them get their lives back on track. We’re proud to serve victims and witnesses in South Australia by campaigning for their rights and helping to improve their experiences of the criminal justice system. THIS IS VSS People respond to crime in different ways. Hence, our support programs need to be sufficiently flexible to provide the emotional and practical help that people need, enabling them to find comfort and the strength to take control after crime. We offer people who have been affected by crime: Safety • Safety assessments and home security upgrades • Legal advice and representation regarding Intervention Orders • Advice and representation in tenancy matters arising from family and domestic abuse Support • Information and referrals through our Helpdesk on 1800 VICTIM (842846) • Supportive and therapeutic counselling • Face-to-face, telephone and outreach services • Support for co-victims of homicide • Support services funded by the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse • Fact sheets and brochures • Resource Centre Justice • Support to navigate the criminal justice system, including Court Companions • Information and assistance with Victims of Crime Compensation • An amplified voice through our research, advocacy, media and training. • Assistance with Victim Impact Statements 4