Victim Support
Support for victims of crime is a core part of community safety. The LPS is committed to a delivering trauma-informed response to people affected by crime when they need it most.
Through specialized teams and trusted community partnerships, we offer support, emotional reassurance, and clear pathways to healing.
Beacon House Child and Youth Advocacy Centre
In 2024, 135 children and youth received trauma-informed support through Beacon House Child and Youth Advocacy Centre (CYAC) as part of abuse investigations.
Beacon House offers a child-friendly, supportive space where police work alongside an advocate to provide families with emotional care and referrals to long-term supports.
New in 2024
Virgil, a trained support dog, now helps comfort children during police interviews and court proceedings, easing fear and supporting recovery.
24/7 Crisis Intervention and Victim Services
The Crisis Intervention and Victim Services Unit (CIVSU) responds around the clock to major incidents, including homicides and the deaths of children under five. CIVSU provides immediate emotional support, safety planning, and follow up care that helps victims begin their journey toward stability and healing.
Victim Support Initiative (VSI)
Our partnership with Victim Services of Middlesex-London (VSML) led to the LPS making 75 referrals to the VSI in 2024.
Of those who participated and gave feedback, 98% found the support helpful.
“Reporting sexual violence can feel overwhelming. The Victim Support Initiative helps ensure survivors have clear information, supportive guidance, and the space to make informed choices right from the start of the investigative process.”
VSML offers both practical assistance and emotional guidance to help individuals navigate the aftermath of crime, build resilience, and access long-term resources.
Community Support After Major Incidents
When serious incidents impact entire neighbourhoods, LPS activates the SPICE Protocol (Serious Post-Incident Community Engagement). Led by the Community Oriented Response Unit, SPICE ensures timely outreach, emotional reassurance and connection to services, helping restore a sense of safety while preserving the integrity of investigations.
Addressing Violence Against Women
Addressing violence against women remains a critical priority for the LPS.
Intimate Partner Violence Unit (IPVU)
The Intimate Partner Violence Unit oversees all IPV investigations, ensuring proper risk assessment, safety planning and coordination with other units and partners.
The IPVU:
- Flags high-risk offenders
- Leads officer training in IPV prevention and identification
- Collaborates with CIVSU and community agencies to deliver wraparound care
- Works proactively to reduce repeat offences and improve victim safety
Victim Choice Reporting (VCR)
The VCR Unit gives survivors of intimate partner violence or sexual assault more control by providing an option to report virtually.
In 2024, 134 victims were offered VCR:
- 127 (95%) chose virtual reporting
- Of those, 94% were satisfied with their interaction
This flexible, trauma-informed approach helps build trust and improve access to police services.
Bail Safety and Victim Protection
The Bail Safety team works alongside the Crown Attorney’s Office and Victim Witness Assistance Program (VWAP) to interview victims prior to the release of an accused.
This process helps assess risk and supports informed bail decisions. CIVSU and the Intimate Partner Violence Unit (IPVU) provide continued wraparound support to victims.
Human Trafficking Prevention
London’s position along the Highway 401 corridor makes it a hotspot for human trafficking. The Human Trafficking Unit works to disrupt networks and support survivors through enforcement, education and outreach.
In 2024
- 25presentations delivered in the community
- 53proactive interactions led to 36 referrals for support
- 16people arrested for exploiting women in the sex trade
- 14victims/survivors recovered and connected to care
Hope Together: Supporting Survivors
The “Hope Together: Supporting Survivors” symposium brought police, service providers, and community partners together to confront exploitation and promote education.
