Sexual Abuse Counselling Centre_Parent Support Handbook

page 15 to understand how to respond. If new details emerge during these conversations, report the new material to the investigating officer immediately. Please ask your SACC intake clinician for more information on how best to support your child during this process. • All questions regarding the police investigation should be directed at the officer assigned to your case. Although SACC clinicians are happy to assist you with general questions, we are not in the position to answer questions specific to your case. Even after you have signed a Consent to Release/Obtain Information Form, SACC clinicians are only granted access to some information on the file. • Once the investigation in complete, it is important to note: not all police investigations lead to an alleged offender to being charged. Not all police investigations lead to court. In many cases there is not enough evidence to move forward with charges or to court, but please remember this does not mean the abuse did not happen. • Do not hesitate to ask the investigating officer questions you have about the outcome of the investigation. If you require support in understanding this please speak to your SACC intake clinician or connect with a Victim Service Worker (see below).

Victim Service Workers

As a victim of crime you are entitled to access a Victim Service Worker. Victims and witnesses can call VictimLink whether or not they have reported the crime to police.

A victim service worker can provide support services such as: • Helping victims talk to police • Providing information about the criminal justice system • Providing court support, including going to court with victims •

Helping complete a crime victim assistance program application to apply for benefits • Helping to understand and prepare a victim impact statement and an emergency safety plan • Talking about the experience and helping people deal with emotions arising from being a victim of crime.

To get more information, support, and a referral to a victim service worker, call: VictimLink BC at 1.800.563.0808

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