A journey to freedom from trauma

“I had unwavering support and belief in me, and I am forever grateful and thankful.”

The following content may be disturbing for victims and survivors of violence, sexual assault and trauma. We encourage you to use your discretion as to whether you should continue reading. Visit here for a list of after-hours support numbers.  

A victim survivor of historical child sexual abuse, Craig had waited many years for relief and resolution.

While the police investigation unfolded to uncover child sexual abuse that occurred more than 45 years ago, public prosecutors referred Craig to Windermere’s Gippsland Victims Assistance Program (VAP). 

During the lengthy process of the investigation, Victim Support Worker Tracy Walker linked Craig with counselling and kept him up to date on the investigation and court processes.

Often, cases such as Craig’s take years with waiting periods of up to a year or more for court hearings. Tracy’s thorough knowledge and experience of the criminal justice system helped Craig remain well-informed and supported throughout this prolonged period.

“After doing everything we possibly can we temporarily close the case while waiting for next steps. In that time, we check in periodically to see how they are doing,” says Tracy.

As Craig’s case was about to go to trial, the accused pleaded guilty, and Craig was given the opportunity to attend a plea hearing and deliver a victim impact statement.

Due to his dyslexia, Craig needed help putting his complex thoughts to words and Tracy worked extensively with him to develop the statement.

“I helped him express everything he wanted to say, and he was very happy with it. He lodged it with the public prosecutors and kept a copy with him to bring to court,” explains Tracy.

As a pensioner who lives outside of Victoria, Craig needed funds for travel and expenses.

The Windermere Victim Assistance Program covered his airfare, accommodation, meals and transportation costs so that he could attend court.

Tracy also linked Craig with a solicitor from the Office of the Public Prosecutions to attend court with him and walked him through the process.

The months of preparation with Tracy allowed Craig to develop the confidence to face his abuser and read out his statement.

“The fact that Craig’s abuser pleaded guilty and accepted what he had done just made a huge difference for him. He felt so much relief that he was believed to begin with,” says Tracy.

As next steps, Tracy helped Craig reach out to crimes compensation bodies to lodge a claim on his behalf and placed him on a victim’s register so that he would be notified of any changes to his abuser’s sentencing.

For Craig, it was a weight finally lifted off his shoulders. It played a considerable role in his recovery process, and he has nothing but gratitude for all the support.

“I had unwavering support and belief in me, and I am forever grateful and thankful." Your staff are amazing and their experience shone. Throughout the whole process, they were available for me and nothing was a problem. Thank you Windermere,” says Craig.

In addition to the many supports that Craig received, Windermere’s VAP program also assists with parole board submissions and even arranging security measures if necessary.

“Anyone who is uncertain of the process or what to expect, can call us anonymously if they wish and ask for advice. We can explain the eligibility criteria for our services, how we support, how the criminal investigation is carried out and how to make a statement to police,” explains Tracy.

The VAP program services are offered free of charge and anyone requiring information or support can choose the level of support they require.

“If someone requires support in only one area, that’s what we will provide. It’s up to the individual what they want, the power to decide is with them,” adds Tracy.

 

Windermere’s Victims Assistance Program (VAP) is a voluntary program that provides confidential information, advice and support for those who have experienced violent crime. This program is funded by the Victorian State Government through the Department of Justice & Community Safety (DOJCS).

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*Details have been changed to protect privacy