New program helps victims avoid reliving their trauma due to a long and complex adjudicative process, says MAG
The Ontario government’s Victim Quick Response Program + , an enhanced program to support victims of violent crimes, will begin operation on Oct. 1.
According to a statement by the Ministry of the Attorney General, unlike the previous system, the new program aims to avoid victims reliving their trauma due to a long and complex adjudicative process. The supports provided cover various needs such as emergency and essential expenses, funerals and counselling costs.
Under the VQRP+, designated agencies in communities across Ontario will support victims in the immediate aftermath of a crime and will assist victims in accessing the supports they need. The new program, MAG said, builds on the existing VQRP by making it quicker and easier for victim to access services and supports. The program is open to victims of violence — including intimate partner violence, human trafficking, homicide, and hate crimes — and their family members.
"With the enhanced VQRP+ program, our government is putting people first by ensuring programs directly support victims, their immediate family members, and witnesses in the immediate aftermath of violent crimes,” said Attorney General Doug Downey. “VQRP+ will relieve some of the burden caused by the crime, enhance safety, and meet their practical needs. At the same time, we are ensuring this provincial program will also help serve as a bridge to longer-term health and social supports.”
