Resources
Safety & Emergency Planning
Safety plans are tailored strategies designed to reduce harm for those at risk of abuse. Support is available through the following services:
Optimism Place (Women’s Shelter & Support Services): 519-271-5550
Victim Services Huron Perth: 519-600-4108
Family Services Perth-Huron (VAW Services): 519-273-1020
For added support, iHEAL is a free, private, and secure app that helps you prioritize safety and well-being if you’ve experienced abuse from a current or former partner. The app is research-backed and customized to your needs. Download the app here.
Some Tips:
→ Inform close friends or neighbours of the abuse going on. One way is to create a “code word” that when used in a call lets them know you are in danger.
→ Keep a copy of important documents (passports, birth certificates, driver’s license, banking information, legal documents) in case it’s needed. If not trusted in the home, consider keeping these with a trusted person.
→ Plan where to stay in case of an emergency. Check in with your support system (whether it’s friends or a local shelter) just in case.
Information for Service Providers
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www.learningtoendabuse.ca
www.vawlearningnetwork.ca1137 Western Rd., Room 1118, Faculty of Education Building, Western University, London
Services: Serves local, national, and international communities by producing useful information and tools to assist daily work to prevent and stop violence against women and children. Provides educational opportunities for service providers. Does not provide any counselling services for victims of violence against women.
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Services: Dveducation.ca is a free online source for evidence-based, interactive curricula on intimate partner abuse and sexual violence.
Each program is designed to enhance the knowledge, skills and practices of those who work with patients or clients who have experienced violence and abuse.
The program is convenient and always available. Begin any time, 24/7, and with the handy pause feature, the user can stop to answer the phone, get a sandwich, or take a break when needed.
Free CME credits for Ontario physicians and nurses.
Each scenario provides 0.5 credits. -
Services: The StopVAW Coordinating Committee of Perth County is a community-based committee that responds to and develops prevention strategies for violence against women in Perth County. The committee shares information and conducts outreach activities to educate the public and raise awareness about violence against women.