Castlegar RCMP Victim Services has seen a significant increase in files as well as an increase in the complexity of those files over the past year.
Program manager Kayla Fergusen and RCMP Sgt. Monty Taylor presented a report to Castlegar City Council on April 2 outlining 2023 statistics and plans for the future.
Victim Services responds to wide variety of emergency call outs such as sudden deaths, next of kin notifications, fatal MVIs, assaults and mental health calls.
They also support victims of crime or trauma through non-emergency referrals, follow ups, court preparation, court accompaniment, safety planning and more. In addition, they visit local schools, seniors groups and other community gatherings making people aware of their services.
The program is funded through the Ministry of Public Safety, the City of Castlegar and RDCK Areas I and J, but is administered through Castlegar and District Community Services.
From 2019 to 2022, Victim Services assisted an average of 233 new clients per year or 19 per month.
In 2023, that number jumped to 403 new clients for the year averaging 34 each month.
The program currently has one full time staff member and endeavors to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for 365 days of the year.
“Our goal for the Victim Services program this year was to have the program and staff available at all times,” said Fergusen in the report.
“We want the community to know that there is support available to them during emergency crisis and that they will not be alone.”
Victim Services is looking to hire a part time employee to help with the work load. The job posting is currently open.
They are also hoping to acquire a dedicated vehicle that could always be available and stocked with supplies including blankets, food and car seats.
Several councilors praised the program and Fergusen for their work.
“I want to thank you for the work you do,” said RDCK Area J director Henny Hanegraaf, who was attending the meeting as a special guest. “People who I talk to in the community hold you in very high regard and really value the work you do.”
If you are in need of assistance, you can contact Fergusen at 250-304-6353. However in an emergency or to report a crime, call the RCMP detachment at 250-365-7721.
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