selectability launches victims of crime support program

Townsville victims of property crime and witnesses to critical incidents now have access to tailored mental wellbeing support, thanks to a new program officially launched by selectability on Thursday 19 August 2021.

This new program, the first of its kind in the state, acknowledges the existing range of support options available for victims of domestic and family violence and sexual offences and specifically targets victims of property crimes such as burglary, break and enter, unlawful use of motor vehicles or witnesses to critical incidents or fatal traffic crashes.

selectability CEO, Debra Burden, said the organisation had seen increased levels of referrals to its counselling services for people impacted by property crimes and the program was designed to address this need.

“We are delighted to work with the Queensland Police Service to ensure that victims of crime and witnesses to critical incidents across Townsville have access to the support they need,” said Ms Burden.

“Property crime, along with witnessing critical incidents, can have significant impacts on a person’s sense of security and mental wellbeing.

“selectability has designed a structured four-week program to help individuals build resilience, understand signs of post-traumatic stress and develop strategies to improve their mental wellbeing.

“This is complemented by our one-on-one counselling so depending on their needs, an individual may choose one or both options.”

The four-week program starts on Tuesday 7 September and will follow the same structure each subsequent month.

The Queensland Police Service can refer directly to the program or provide resources for individuals to self-refer if they are not seeking immediate support. Attending the launch from QPS was Assistant Commissioner, Mark Wheeler; Chief Superintendent, Craig Hanlon;  and Officer in Charge (Vulnerable Person’s Unit) Sergeant, Elise Feltham.