Reach out, speak out to build healthy relationships to end family violence

Today, Mayor Rod Frank declared November as family violence prevention month in Strathcona County. Together with A Safe Place, Victim Services, Saffron Sexual Assault Centre; Strathcona County will be promoting awareness and understanding on how to support healthy relationships in an effort to end family violence in Strathcona County.

The Reach Out. Speak Out. campaign focuses on educating the community about the importance of healthy relationships. Healthy relationships counteract the development of violence because they are built on a foundation of trust and mutual respect, balanced in giving and receiving, with both partners feeling safe physically and emotionally.

Family violence continues to be an issue that affects all walks of life in Strathcona County. In 2017, RCMP received 883 reports of family violence. A Safe Place admitted 739 women and children to the shelter and supported an additional 404 adults (including seniors) and children through its outreach program. Alternative arrangements were necessary for 2,143 women and children who could not be accommodated in the shelter due to lack of room. While Victim Services supports victims of all types of crime and trauma, more than half of the individuals needing support were related to family violence in 2017.

Residents are encouraged to learn more and become familiar with the available support resources or by calling 780-464-4044. The public is also invited to share how they support healthy relationships in an effort to end family violence by using the #SCspeakout hashtag online.

As part of the Social Framework’s on-going efforts towards building a supported, safe and connected community, Family and Community Services offers supports for individuals and families who would like to make a positive change in their life or have concerns with relationships. All services are free or “pay what you can afford”, evening hours are available and no appointments are necessary. Contact Family and Community Services for resources and supports to address family violence, including walk-in counselling, by calling 780-464-4044 or online.

Anyone who is in, or aware of an abusive situation, is encouraged to call A Safe Place 24-hour crisis line at 780-464-7233.

Set in the centre of Alberta’s energy and agricultural heartland, Strathcona County is a thriving, successful and vibrant community of over 98,000 residents. Strathcona County is made up of the urban area of Sherwood Park and a large adjacent rural area of farms, acreages and smaller hamlets. It is home to 75 per cent of refining in Western Canada. With a focus on economic, governance, social, cultural and environmental sustainability, Strathcona County is committed to balancing the unique needs of its diverse community.

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Contact: Strathcona County Communications, 780-410-6595