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Niagara Fact. Women and children sought refuge at Women’s Shelters, fleeing violent and abusive relationships, in 2008. 578. Niagara Fact. were redirected to other services because the shelters were full. 183. Niagara Fact.
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Niagara Fact Women and children sought refuge at Women’s Shelters, fleeing violent and abusive relationships, in 2008 578
Niagara Fact were redirected to other services because the shelters were full 183
Niagara Fact women and children have lived at Women’s Shelters since 1977 18,000 50% were children
Niagara Fact women called the Women’s Shelter’s 24/7 phone line in 2008 because they were in crisis 4,500
Niagara Fact 17 Number of domestic related homicidessince 1997
Niagara Fact 4 Number of children left motherless as a result of domestic violence related murders
Niagara Fact 20% The percentage of Family and Children’s Services caseload due to Family Violence
Women’s Shelters are the onlysafe, emergency shelters for abused women and children in the Niagara Region.
Niagara Fact $3.2 million The annual cost to operate three shelters and their support programs for women and children who have experienced abuse
Niagara Fact $5½ million The estimated annual Regional Government social services costs related to Family Violence
Niagara Fact of the Niagara Regional Police budget is spent responding to Family Violence 10%
$71 million The estimated annual cost of Family Violence in Niagara alone (Social Services, Education, Criminal Justice, Labour, Medical)
Abuse is about power and control. • An abuser slowly takes away the independence of his partner.
She is isolated from family and friends. • He may become aggressive and violent.
Over a period of weeks or months, she is taken hostage in her own home.
That’s why it’s so difficult for a woman to escape an abusive relationship.
NRPS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SUMMARY REPORT 2007 2008 Total number of occurrences where charges were laid or where a warrant is being sought 746 916 Number of occurrences where accused held bail / show cause 626 669 Number of assault charges laid 351 452
What is Family Violence? I A powerimbalance, tocontrol another person using • intimidation, • fear and • abuse tomaintainthat control.
What is “Family Violence”? Abuse can be: Physical Sexual Psychological Financial Spiritual
Did you know that… …women and children make up the overwhelming majority of victims?
Did you know that… ... victims are often blamed for the abuse?
Did you know that… …men and women need to speak up to break the cycle of Family Violence?
Why is it Everybody’s Business? • Family Violence is not just a “Women’s Issue” • For some people the family is the most dangerous place to be • Family Violence is a community, health and safety issue • Family Violence is a crime • Education and prevention are critical.
Why is it Everybody’s Business? • The financial costs are staggering. • The costs to our children and to society are overwhelming. • A change can only happen if everyone is involved.
Why Employers Should Invest in Family Violence Prevention? • Health and Safety • Cost Savings/ Cost Benefit • Employee Satisfaction • Customer Appreciation • Crime Stopping
The goalof is to educate employers and their employees to recognize and respond to Family Violence as it impacts their workplace.
Solutions: What We Can Do • Create awareness and deliver Public Education about Family Violence. • Foster non-violent, positive relationships at home, at work, in the community. • Take appropriate action when you encounter abusive behaviour.
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world. Indeed it’s the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead
can help you in the following ways at no charge: • Awareness & Education • Supportive Workplace Atmosphere • Supportive Programs and Practices
Next Steps Ontario Bill 168 Workplace Violence Harassment Prevention Legislation
Next StepsLocal Municipalities • Presentation at 12 local Councils • Meet with CAO/Clerk to review current policies and procedures • Meet with staff to plan employee presentations
Resources Available: Information and Educational Presentations Comprehensive Brochures and Toolkits Websites: www.cevaw.com www.neighboursfriendsandfamilies.ca www.dfnt.ca www.fccniagara.on.ca
Project Coordinator services are free Susan Speck 905-356-3933 ext 224 iebpc@wpsn.ca www.stop-family-violence.ca
Staff Direction or Council Motion: “To receive the presentation, Stop Family Violence: It’s Everybody’s Business” and refer to staff for a report.