Wellness coordinator Laurett Nwaonumah, left, hopes to find 10 new volunteers for the Saint John Police Force's Victim Services Unit. (Photo from SJPF)
People with free time and a calming personality are wanted for the Victim Services Unit of the Saint John Police Force.
It’s hoped the prospective volunteers will commit to serving for at least one year.
Wellness Coordinator Laurett Nwaonumah said volunteers can assist in a variety of settings.
“It could be at the scene after officers have cleared for safety. It could be after officers have brought an individual to the station. It could also be a phone call. It depends on what the needs are,” Nwaonumah said.
She said their team members work closely with Saint John Police Force officers when there is a call for support or services.
“What will do is provide support such as emotional support or practical, tangible support to individuals who have been impacted either by crime or sudden tragedies so, it’s really more of a navigating role we play in trying to determine what the needs are and how to support them,” Nwaonumah said.
Nwaonumah said many of the volunteers already have full-time jobs and are looking for other ways to connect with the community.
“It’s a very rewarding experience to be able to walk alongside individuals who have been impacted this way or are in distress and be able to provide support,” Nwaonumah said
Nwaonumah said the work by the Victim Services Unit makes “a tremendous difference for many people in their time of need”.
Up to 40 hours of training are required in order to be a volunteer with the Victim Services Unit.
Nwaonumah wants to find 10 volunteers for the next training class.
The Victim Services Unit of the SJPF is currently recruiting volunteers. Please see the link below for more details and thank you for considering. https://t.co/Q5TDjt1gca
— Saint John Police (@saintjohnpolice) February 24, 2021
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