November is Family Violence Prevention Month, a time to increase awareness and take action to prevent violence in homes across the province.
Family violence can happen to anyone, regardless of age, ability, culture, gender or sexual orientation.
Victims can be in romantic relationships with their abusers or they can be separated or divorced from their abusers. They can be the children (birth, step, adopted or foster) of their abusers.
They can be the parents or grandparents of their abusers.
They can be men. They can be women.
They can be wealthy. They can be poor.
They could be anyone: your neighbour, your coworker, your friend, the person who serves you coffee or the child you see riding their bike to school each morning.
Family violence affects people from every corner of society; no community is immune.
Surveys by Statistics Canada show that family violence is a common and widespread problem in Canada, with Alberta coming in with the third highest rate of self-reported spousal violence among Canadian provinces.
The Government of Alberta defines family violence as an abuse of power within family relationships that can endanger the survival, security or well-being of another person.
It can include everything from spousal abuse to senior abuse, child abuse, financial abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse and everything in between.
We all have a role to play to end family violence and build healthier relationships in our communities.
In recognition of Family Violence Prevention Month, Community Outreach Services (COS) encourages everyone to educate themselves about the warning signs of family violence and how to help someone if you suspect they are being abused.
Warning signs can include a sudden withdrawal from family and friends, unexplained bruises or injuries, signs of depression and anxiety, and a withdrawal from activities they once enjoyed.
In cases of child abuse, it can also include signs of hunger, bad personal hygiene (eg. dirty clothes), and inadequate clothes for the weather.
If someone tells you they are experiencing family violence it is important to believe them and support them.
You can do this by referring them to professional help and resources.
If the person is in immediate danger, call 911.
If not, local help or information is available by calling the Family Violence Info Line at 310-1818. There are people there 24 hours a day, seven days a week offering assistance in more than 170 languages.
In Jasper, COS is also available Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 627 Patricia Street.
Drop in and ask for an outreach worker or make an appointment by calling 780-852-2100.
COS provides free, confidential, non-judgemental support services and referrals.
Our outreach workers can connect you with the supports and services you require and support you through the process of accessing help.
This article was submitted to The Fitzhugh by Jasper Community Outreach Services.
