National Victim Services Program

Provides victims with the information and services they need to have an effective voice in the federal correctional system. Victims may register with CSC or the Parole Board of Canada (PBC) to receive information on the correctional system and the offender who harmed them. This includes information such as the beginning and length of the offender's sentence, the progress they are making towards their rehabilitation, and information about an offender's eligibility for escorted and unescorted temporary absences from the correctional facility. Registration is not automatic. To register, complete a Request for Victim Registration Form or submit an application through the online Victims Portal. Victims can also name a representative or agent to act on their behalf by sending a written notice authorizing the representative or agent. Victims may also provide a Victim Statement to express the continuing impact of the crime on their lives. The Statement is considered in decision-making throughout the course of the offender's sentence. Victim Statements can be submitted at any time and may include the continuing impact of the crime; views about the possible conditional release of the offender; asking the CSC to consider the victim's area of residence when making release plans; and requesting that the offender be prevented from communicating with the victim or from going to a specified place. The Victim's Portal is a simple, secure way to send and receive information online. It allows victims and/or their named representatives to access information they are entitled to, as defined by law, at their convenience. Also offers the ability to make a complaint if a victim believes their rights under the Canadian Victim Bill of Rights has been infringed, violated, or denied. To make a complaint, complete the Victim Complaint Form and submit it by email or mail. Also provides a collection of online resources for victims of crime. Office hours are 8 am to 4 pm Monday to Friday, except for statutory holidays.