Preventing and Ending Family Violence

How can I help end family violence?

Neighbours, friends, co-workers and family have a key role to play in ending the violence that touches the people around them.  It is not an easy thing to do, but for some women affected by intimate partner violence, it may mean the difference between life and death. 

Family violence affects a person’s health and well-being, safety, parenting, participation in the community and the ability to form healthy relationships.  It can have lifelong impacts on children by affecting their ability to trust and feel secure.  It can also affect their growth and development, school performance and emotional well-being.  It shapes what they expect from future intimate relationships.  For more information on how to create a community free of violence, click here.

If you are concerned about someone you know:

• speak to her privately about what you see. 

• let her know that you are concerned and want to help

• be clear that you believe her, that the abuse is not her fault and that violence is never okay

• ask her what she needs

• help her to access available resources.  

• support her even if she does not leave the abuser right away. 

Sometimes just by bringing the issue into the light, women feel less isolated and alone, and the barriers of secrecy and shame begin to break down.  Woman abuse can happen to anyone, irrespective of their culture, socioeconomic status, age or religion.  Men can also experience violence, but by far, women and children suffer the most.   All violence hurts.

As we reach out in our neighbourhoods and workplaces, we are helping to build a safer, stronger and healthier community for everyone. 

Click here for a list of community resources.