A message from the North Grenville Police Services Board:
During the COVID-19 pandemic, police services, as well as the Leeds and Grenville Victim Services, have reported an increase in calls particularly related to domestic violence. Intimate partner abuse, or domestic violence, involves the use of physical, psychological or sexual force in an intimate relationship. An intimate relationship is one between partners, and includes current and former dating partners, common-law partners, and married spouses.
Rates of violence were high in Canada prior to the pandemic, and now many people in the community face a heightened risk of partner-related violence and abuse while isolated at home. Domestic violence is a serious crime. Police have a responsibility to assist with preventing violence. A person committing these acts can be arrested, charged, convicted, and jailed.
It may be difficult for those in abusive relationships to reach out for help, and the pandemic has made it harder, as social isolation creates new barriers to access services for those experiencing abuse or violence.
“Everyone has the right to a safe and violent-free home. Please know that help is available for those who may be facing violence in the home,” said John Barclay, Chair of the North Grenville Police Services Board.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1 or one of the resources listed below.
Earlier this year, MPP Steve Clark announced funding for sexual assault services and support for communities throughout the United Counties, including in North Grenville. The services will support victims and survivors of sexual assault through counselling, peer support, advocacy and 24-hour crisis support by phone. The Province is also providing up to four hours of free legal advice to survivors of sexual assault.
Available Resources:
- Victim Services of Leeds & Grenville: 1-800-939-7682, vslg.ca
- Assaulted Women’s Helpline: 1-866-863-0511, Text #SAFE (#7233), awhl.org
- Leeds & Grenville Interval House: 1-800-267-4409, lgih.ca
- Assault Response & Care Centre: 1-800-567-7415, www.arc-c.ca
- Children’s Mental Health of Leeds and Grenville: 1-800-809-2494, www.cmhlg.ca
- Legal Aid Ontario: 1-800-668-8258, www.legalaid.on.ca
