If the Media Calls: A Guide for Crime Victims & Survivors

The If the Media Calls: A Guide for Crime Victims & Survivors publication (revised Dec. 2016) provides victims with information about the focus of media; the impact of media on victims; the risks/benefits of speaking to the media; modern technology; tips for interacting with the media and high-profile cases. This may be used as a handout by police, victim services staff, NGOs, and others who interact directly with crime victims and survivors. We gratefully acknowledge funding from the Department of Justice Victims Fund.

The publication is available in hard copy and online – see buttons below to order or download.

Order Printed Publication Download PDF Version

After accessing this new resource, please take the time to provide us with your feedback by completing the short evaluation questionnaire below.

If the Media Calls: Evaluation Form

    The Guide provides me with accurate information about how the media cover topics of crime and victimization in Canada.
    The Guide explains my privacy rights to me.
    It explains the potential benefits of sharing my story in the media.
    It explains the possible risks of sharing my story in the media.
    I understand that I can appoint a spokesperson and/or have a support person present when conducting interviews.
    It gives practical tips to prepare for interviews.
    The Guide provides me with useful examples of the type of questions the media may ask.
    It helps me better understand the risks of using social media sites, and informs me that the media can access these personal web pages at any time without my direct consent.
    The Guide advises me to speak with the police, Crown Attorney and/or victim services prior to speaking with the media.
    I feel the content in the Guide is informative and complete.
    The Guide is written in a clear and understandable manner.