Organization of the CAVAC

Information on the Montréal CAVAC may be found under the headings:

Team of professionals

The Montréal CAVAC staff includes social workers, psychologists and therapists trained in criminology or in clinical sexology. They are specialized in post-trauma and psychosocial treatment.

They have an in-depth knowledge of the justice system and can adequately inform crime victims and accompany them in the legal process.

Recruitment

Before submitting an application as a case worker at the Montréal CAVAC (Centre d'aide aux victimes d'actes criminels), please read the information concerning recruitment.

Background

In June 1988, the Government of Québec passed an Act introducing measures to respond to the needs and concerns of crime victims. The Act respecting assistance for victims of crime defined the term "victim" by recognizing victims' rights and duties and created the crime victims assistance centres (CAVACs). To ensure their funding, the Minister of Justice instituted the Fonds d'aide aux victimes d'actes criminels (FAVAC).

November 1988 marked the official opening of the Montréal CAVAC. Under the Act, the CAVAC's clientele is made up of crime victims, defined as "a natural person who suffers physical or psychological injury or material loss by reason of a criminal offence committed in Québec, whether or not the perpetrator is identified, apprehended, prosecuted or convicted."

Because the impact on the victim is considered from a social viewpoint, the above definition includes persons close to the victim and any dependants. The CAVAC's mission is to offer them services that meet their needs arising from the crime they were subjected to, by treating them with courtesy, fairness and understanding and with respect for their dignity and privacy.

Highlights illustrating the development of CAVAC services

1988: In November, the Montréal CAVAC offered services to its first clients.

1996: A new service for male victims of sexual abuse in childhood (Groupe PHASE) is set up by the Montréal CAVAC.

1997: A service point is opened in the Montréal Youth Division.

1999: A service point at the Montréal courthouse is opened.

2000: A service is set up for persons who are close to murder victims.

2001: The personalized INFOVAC program is set up in the Youth Division.

2002: A post-trauma group treatment program is set up and the Montréal CAVAC starts up the CAVAC-INFO program at the courthouse to uphold the Statement of Services Available to Citizens .

2003: A new service point is opened on the east side of the island of Montréal. In partnership with the SPVM, the 24/7 intervention service is put in place in a collaborative effort to provide immediate response to crime victims.

2004: Administrative services are shared as a result of the hiring of a clinical director.

2005: The Montréal CAVAC receives a partnership award from the SPVM for its 24/7 intervention service.

2006: A new service point is opened on the west side of the island of Montréal.2003:

Service area

The Montréal CAVAC provides assistance to victims of crime on the island of Montréal.