Dear member,
According to a recent study released Wednesday by Statistics Canada, one in 10 women in Canada fears there will be family violence in their homes during the period of confinement imposed across the country.
At the end of March, the SOS domestic violence hotline in Quebec reported a 15 per cent increase in calls since the start of the confinement measures.
That’s why Canada’s unions are calling for increased vigilance and awareness to the growing risk of domestic violence amidst the coronavirus pandemic. The IATSE Women’s Committee is working to amplify that message – and this campaign from the Canadian Labour congress.
Whether you need help or you want to help someone else, don’t hesitate. We all have a role to play.
What to do if you need help
- If you are in immediate danger, call 911. You do not need to tell the 911 operator why you are calling if you are afraid of your partner’s reaction. Even if you just say “I would like to order a pizza”, police will come to your home.
- Even if leaving does not feel like an option, shelter workers can provide assistance with developing a safety plan, offer a listening ear and help you better understand your situation.
- Reach out to any women’s shelter or helpline, which will provide information, support and referrals to other services. You do not need to seek shelter to get help.
- If you belong to a union, create or adapt a workplace safety plan with your union representative. If you don’t belong to one, work with your employer and a shelter worker.
What to do if you want to help someone
- Remind them that you care about their health and well-being.
- Encourage them to reach out to their local shelter to get support and to develop a safety plan.
- Keep the lines of communication open to reduce isolation.
- Union representatives who have been assisting members with workplace safety planning can work with them and a shelter worker to adapt it to the new context.
Useful numbers:
If you are in danger: 911
General Community Resources: 211
SOS violence conjugale :
Montreal : 514-873-9010
Tool-free : 1-800-363-9010
sos@sosviolenceconjugale.ca
Centre des femmes : 514-876-9965, info@rcentres.qc.ca
With solidarity,
The IATSE 514 team
