Family Consultants/Victim Services

The Family Consultant & Victim Services Unit with the London Police began operation in January, 1973. It was developed in response to the obvious and important "social role" that police officers play alongside that of law enforcer and crime preventer. The reality remains that police officers are the only fully mobile, 24-hour social service available in the community. For families and individuals in crisis, it is often the police officer who is first at the door to offer help and assistance. When families require more than police assistance, it is the police officer who is counted on to provide help in reaching important community resources.

The Family Consultant Unit has become an integral part of the London Police budget and planning process. Through the leadership of the Police Services Board and senior administration, in conjunction with the Unit's Professional Advisory Council, the program has continued to develop and respond to changing community needs. The Unit operates from Police Headquarters seven days a week.

The staff are mobile and are in constant radio contact with the police Communications Centre, allowing for immediate assistance when police are involved in cases needing the expertise of the Unit. The Consultant provides sufficient counselling to begin the crisis-resolution process, and then makes arrangements for ongoing support from community agencies, extended family, and other resources as appropriate. The Consultants provide officers with feedback and interventions. The process of building support, or further counselling for the family usually continues during office hours the following day, with team members following up with agencies, clients and officers.

For further information contact:

London Police Service
Family Consultant/Victim Services Unit
519-661-5636