Victim Services Bruce Grey Perth and Victim Services Huron are merging.
As of May 1, the Stratford-based chapter of Victim Services will be Victim Services Huron Perth, rather than Victim Services Bruce Grey Perth.
Deb Logue, executive director of Victim Services Huron and interim executive director of Victim Services Bruce Grey Perth, said that the change is for many reasons, including to align Victim Services with the other organizations in the region.
“It was difficult for Bruce Grey Perth to provide the same level of care with all of our stakeholders just because it didn't always align,” Logue said. “People got confused with who they're supposed to contact … It’s just so we're a more manageable geographical location for one organization to cover.”
Victim Services is a volunteer-based organization that provides emotional support, practical assistance, and referrals for any survivors of a crime or a tragic circumstance.
They assist survivors of domestic violence, motor vehicle collisions, or any situation in which victims need assistance, with immediate support – whether it is phoning funeral homes or getting a box of tissues.
Victim Services has a one hour commitment to be on scene when it's called by first responders and, as Logue explained, it can be difficult considering Bruce Grey Perth covers three counties.
Logue said that the hope is this merger will streamline all services for clients and will be a model for the organization to be more collaborative with stakeholders.
For anyone using the service, there will be no change. It’s the same point of contact. There will be a transition period as websites, emails, and the names will change, but the number, 1-866-376-9852, will remain the same.
And in the meantime, if there is any confusion, Logue said that survivors won’t be left without services.
“We’re always kind of supporting each other,” Logue said. “There’s no wrong door for our clients. Whichever number they call, we’ll make sure it gets to the appropriate agency to support them.”
As the merger moves forward this month, Victim Services will be in touch with community partners and clients to make sure everyone is aware.
