FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CO-LOCATION CONNECTS VICTIMS OF CRIME WITH SUPPORT SERVICES More victims of crime are being connected with the support services they need thanks to a new initiative between Frankston police and Windermere Child and Family Services. The Windermere Victims Assistance Program runs out of Frankston police station two days a week and services the Frankston and Mornington Peninsula areas. Acting Superintendent Karen Nyholm said the co-location provided victims of serious crimes with the appropriate support at the time they needed it most. “We wanted to provide a more professional, complete service to victims by helping to create meaningful linkages with support services,” she said. “Victims won’t always reach out for help – they need guidance and support. “Through this partnership, police directly connect victims with Windermere staff at the time the crime occurs. “The introduction might be made in person or over the phone, but most importantly it takes place at the time the victim needs it most. “The arrangement has been in place since January and already we’ve seen a higher rate of successful referrals. “By having Windermere staff located at the station, police are able to build better relationships and engage with the service to see firsthand how it works and benefits victims.” This new co-location means that Windermere will be able to provide a more responsive and personal service for victims. Windermere’s chief executive, Dr Lynette Buoy recognised the importance of the partnership to the whole service provided. “The partnership between Frankston Police and Windermere is a critical part in the whole service provided,” she said. “We know that if we can work with victims of crime early we can help them better understand the system, what they will go through, and help psychologically. “The co-location is another step to providing the best support we can. If we get in early we can make a difference.” The Windermere Victims Assistance Program runs out of Frankston police station every Monday and Thursday between 10.30am and 3.30pm, and is available remotely on other days. Minister for Police Wade Noonan and Victoria Police Acting Deputy Commissioner Jack Blayney visited Frankston last Thursday 2nd July to recognise how the program is helping victims of crime, and to and official launch the initiative Ends-
Page 1 of 2 – VAP0016
About Windermere For over 150 years Windermere has been providing help and resources to people so they can live life to their full potential. Our ultimate goal is to help create strong, connected communities where our services are no longer needed. Today we are proud to be one of the largest independent community service organisations operating solely in Victoria’s South-East. We support individuals who have experienced or are dealing with issues such as physical, emotional and sexual abuse, neglect, violence in the family, lack of housing, have been the victim of a violent crime, are living with a disability, who care for a child with a developmental delay or who just need help to fit in or feel part of their community. We provide emotional and practical support, counselling, advice, education, advocacy, therapeutic interventions and reasons to come together. We also provide quality in home and centre-based childcare and work together with a number of schools to help children remain healthy and engaged. If you wish to know more information please contact Windermere Child and Family Services on (03) 9705 3200 or email info@windermere.org.au
For further media information contact: Maree De George Windermere Child and Family Services Phone: (03) 9705 3460 or 0414 609 006 maree.degeorge@windermere.org.au www.windermere.org.au
Img 5193 – Pictured from left: Windermere VAP Team Leader Pam Ruecker, CEO Dr Lynette Buoy, Acting Deputy Commissioner Jack Blayney and Minister for Police Wade Noonan – cutting the ribbon to official launch the program. Img 5211 – Pictured from left: Windermere VAP Team Leader Pam Ruecker, CEO Dr Lynette Buoy, Acting Superintendent Drew Morgan, Minister for Police Wade Noonan, Frankston MP Paul Edbrooke and Acting Deputy Commissioner Jack Blayney.
Page 2 of 2 – VAP0016