Where to turn if you have been the victim of a crime?
After being a victim of crime, a person may feel shocked, scared, and unsure about what to do next. Calgary has a comprehensive network of services to help victims, from the initial call to the police to receiving psychological support and legal advice. In this article, we will take a detailed look at where to go and what procedures to follow to ensure your safety, get an investigation, and protect your rights.
Immediate actions and calling the police
The first and most important step after a crime has been committed is to contact the police. If your life or health is still in danger, call 911 immediately. The operator will redirect your call to the Calgary Police Service or, in case of danger, call the rapid response unit.
If there is no immediate threat but you need police assistance—for example, if there has been a theft, fraud, vandalism, or domestic violence—call the non-emergency line at 403-266-1234. The operator will ask you to describe the location, time, circumstances of the incident, and your details as the victim, and then dispatch an officer to file a report and begin an investigation.
Upon arrival, the police officers will conduct a preliminary interview, interview witnesses, and file a police report (Victim Impact Statement in the case of serious crimes). Obtaining a report is mandatory for further court proceedings and receiving compensation through an insurance company or victim support fund.
Victim Services Calgary Program
After contacting the police, victims can seek crisis and emotional support from Victim Services Calgary, which operates in every police district of the city. This service provides:
- A 24-hour crisis hotline at 403-266-4357 (HELP);
- Confidential meetings with crisis counselors — psychologists and social workers who will help you cope with the initial shock and develop a plan of action;
- Information about court proceedings and interpreter services, if needed;
- Referrals to doctors, domestic violence centers, or other specialized services.
You do not need a referral from the police to contact Victim Services: simply submit a request yourself by phone or via the web form on the Calgary Police website.
Legal assistance and human rights organizations
To protect your rights in court or prepare a civil lawsuit, it is recommended that you contact Calgary Legal Guidance, which provides a range of free and discounted legal consultations. Lawyers will help you:
- prepare documents for a lawsuit or civil compensation;
- prepare to participate in criminal proceedings as a witness or plaintiff;
- apply to the Alberta Victims of Crime Fund, which reimburses material damages and medical expenses.
In addition, Pro Bono Law Alberta offers free consultations on criminal and family law for low-income individuals.
Specialized support services
Domestic violence and sexual crimes
If you have been a victim of domestic violence or sexual assault, your first stop is Calgary Women’s Emergency Shelter (FearIsNotLove). In addition to providing shelter, they offer legal support, psychological counseling, and assistance in obtaining protective orders.
For victims of sexual crimes, there is the Calgary Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) at Foothills Hospital, where victims are provided with free medical examinations to collect evidence and psychological support.
Support for children and adolescents
Children who have been victims or witnesses of crime can get help from the Child and Youth Advocate of Alberta. The office specifically monitors the rights of children in the justice system and provides free counseling to parents and guardians.
Support for seniors and people with disabilities
The Seniors Abuse Helpline can be reached at 1-888-489-8706 and accepts calls from seniors who have been victims of fraud, cruelty, or abuse. For people with disabilities, there is the Disability Adjudication and Review Board, which protects their rights and helps them obtain compensation through the courts.
Psychological rehabilitation and long-term support
The Trauma Recovery Program at the Calgary Counselling Centre offers multi-level psychotherapy to victims of violence. Group therapy in small, culturally sensitive groups helps victims adapt to their new lives after trauma.
The role of community organizations and volunteers
Informal groups, such as the Victims of Crime Support Group at the Calgary Multicultural Centre, organize meetings for victims of different nationalities to share their experiences and support each other. Ukrainian communities have their own initiative groups that help displaced persons restore their documents, find shelter, and receive psychological assistance in their native language.
Conclusion
Calgary has an extensive support network for victims of crime, ranging from calling the police to long-term psychological rehabilitation. By contacting the appropriate services at the earliest stage, you can quickly obtain safety, protection of your rights, and the resources you need to resume a normal life. Despite the difficulties, it is important to remember that you are not alone, and there are organizations in the city ready to help anyone who finds themselves in a difficult situation.