Who is a victim?   

A victim is any person whose life has been affected by a criminal act, traumatic circumstance or disaster.

What are a victim's rights?

Under the Victims of Crime Legislation, Bill 23, 1995; Victims have the following rights:

To be treated with courtesy, compassion and respect.

To be kept apprised of the judicial process.

To request information about services and remedies.

To know dates and places of significant proceedings.

To be notified of offender release, parole or escape.

Expect prompt return of property.

Be interviewed by gender specific investigators in the case of sexual assault.

To make representation to the court by way of a Victim Impact Statement.

To apply for Criminal Injuries Compensation.

Tips for coping with stress:

• Reduce the enormity of the event down to what your psyche can   handle.

• Assign yourself manageable tasks that are finite. 

• What can you accomplish today?

• Establish a personal network - but find people you can talk to and who can support you.

• Work to improve your everyday health - eating, exercise, and sleeping habits.

• Establish boundaries to prevent intrusions into your suffering.

• Turn anger into action.  Turn fear into energy.

• Keep your sense of humour.

• Don't be afraid to cry.

• Find a way to create meaning in the depths of tragedy.

• Renew or engage in spiritual dialogue.