About the Service Division 41

Division 41 - Vulnerable Persons Unit

The Winnipeg Police Service definition of a vulnerable person is any person 18 years of age or older who because of their diminished mental capacity and/or physical state:

Is at heightened risk of harm to their health and well being, and is less capable of protecting themselves from risk.
May be unable to fully access the Criminal Justice System, or understand or be understood by officials thereof.

Examples include persons who have:

Diminished physical ability (e.g. elderly, physically challenged, hearing/speech impaired).
Diminished mental ability (e.g. elderly, mentally challenged, persons with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, persons who have experienced a severe physical trauma such as a head injury).
Mental health issues (e.g. persons with Bipolar Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or Schizophrenia).

The Winnipeg Police Service has established the position of the Vulnerable Persons Coordinator. The Vulnerable Persons Coordinator consults and liaises with vulnerable persons, police, service providers and community members to diminish the risk of harm to the health and well being of vulnerable persons. As well, through consultations, assist vulnerable persons to access and understand the criminal justice system.

There are several agencies that the Vulnerable Persons coordinator liaises with. These agencies may be capable of providing a support person for a vulnerable person, or directing members of the public to the specific resource required.

Please check back for links to all of these agencies.