November is Family Violence Prevention Month

Family Violence - What You Need to Know

Alberta has the third highest rate of self-reported spousal violence among Canadian provinces, yet family violence is preventable. November is Family Violence Prevention Month (FVPM) in Alberta. It is a time to increase awareness of the warning signs of family violence and the resources and supports available so we can work together to end family violence and build healthier relationships in our communities.

Who Does it Affect?

Family Violence can happen to people of all ages, abilities, socioeconomic status, cultural and spiritual backgrounds, gender identifies and sexual orientations. Victims of Family Violence can be in romantic relationships, divorced, children (birth, step, adopted, or fostered), grandparents, or individuals with guardians or caregivers.

Know the Behaviors

Abusive and violent behaviors may include:

Physical abuse

Psychological abuse

Financial abuse (access to money is restricted or controlled)

Criminal harassment or stalking

Verbal abuse

Sexual abuse

Spiritual abuse (being forced into or restricted from practicing religion)

Pet cruelty

Know the Warning Signs

Victims of abuse will often show the following warning signs:

Withdrawal from family and friends

Not going out or doing activities they used to enjoy

Not having access or control of personal finances

Have unexplained bruises or other injuries

Show signs of depression or anxiety

Children may be left alone, hungry, dirty, or not dressed for the weather

Seniors may seem frightened or withdrawn

Know Your Plan

Plan your exist strategy - know where you would go in an emergency and how you would get there

Tell someone you trust about the abuse

Find out what help is available

Seek professional help

Spend time with people who are positive supports

Talk to your children and help them understand they are not to blame

How to Be an Ally

Spread the word about the Family Violence Info Line 310-1818

Participate in Family Violence Prevention Month (November) by wearing a purple ribbon, supporting local events, and following @YourAlberta on Twitter

Volunteer at your local women's shelter

Set up workplace Family Violence prevention protocols and awareness workshops

Join clubs and associations that prevent Family Violence and promote gender equality

Nominate someone in your community for an Inspiration Award: alberta.ca/inspirationawards

Know How to Help

It is important to be supportive if someone tells you they are experiencing Family Violence, or if you suspect they are being abused. Here's how you can help:

Learn more about Family Violence to know the warning signs

Ask in a caring way if someone is hurting them, and believe them when they tell you

Listen without judgement

Help them access professional help and resources

Know Your Rights

A victim of Family Violence and abuse has the right to:

Be free and safe from violence

Be treated with courtesy, compassion, and respect.

Get information about their legal rights

Press charges for criminal actions

Have the maximum protection from abuse including restraining orders or protection orders

Call 911 if you or someone you know is in immediate danger

For local help or information, call, text or chat with the Family Violence Info Line, available 24/7/365 at 310-1818

Contact your local women's shelter to flee Family Violence and abuse. Emergency shelters provide shelter, protection, and support. Call the Family Violence Info Line at 310-1818 to find the nearest emergency shelter closest to you or visit alberta.ca/shelters

Reach out to your nearest Victim Services Unit for information, support, and resources available in your area

Contact your local law enforcement agency to report any Family Violence or abuse

Emergency Financial Assistance is available if you need help with expenses to start a new life. Call toll free 1-866-644-5135

HealthLink provides healthcare advise 24/7/365 - Dial 811

If you are Indigenous and need help with court or other community resources, visit Native Counselling Services of Alberta at ncsa.ca

Clare's Law gives people who feel at risk of Family Violence from their new partner, a way to get information about their partner, so they can make informed choices about their safety. Apply at alberta.ca/clares-law.aspx

The Safer Spaces Program helps victims of Family Violence to end their lease at no cost. Apply at alberta.ca/saferspaces or call 1-877-644-9992 (toll-free)

Together we can prevent Family Violence and support survivors

Visit alberta.ca/EndFamilyViolence for additional resources

Information provided by the Alberta Government, 2022

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