Date: Wednesday, April 19, 2023
Victoria, BC – VicPD is recognizing Prevention of Violence Against Women Week, April 16-22, while we continue to work with partners and within our resources to address this problem in our community.
Gender-based violence can affect anyone. However, women experience gender-based violence, and homicide, at a higher rate than men. Indigenous women experience intimate partner violence and homicide at a rate that is three times higher than non-Indigenous women.
In Victoria and Esquimalt, between 2012 and 2022 an average of 657 women and 62 female youth reported being victims of violence each year. Intimate partner violence reports account for an average of 2 per cent of the overall 50,000+ calls that VicPD answers each year.
So far in 2023, more than 200 women and youth females have been victims of violence in our communities.
“This is an active problem in our community that seems to increase each year and was even worse during the pandemic. This week especially, we want to bring awareness to violence against women, and encourage those who are experiencing violence to report it,” says Chief Del Manak.
VicPD recognizes the importance of trauma-informed practices and interventions. All VicPD officers undergo training on cultural awareness and trauma-informed practices, and we have Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) Coordinators on staff seven days a week to take care of victims and their families.
“Our message is that you are not alone, and we are here to support you. There is often worry about families being torn apart and we want you to know that we will work with you, and all of our community partners to ensure that you, and your family, are safe,” says Chief Manak.
VicPD works with a variety of organizations including Greater Victoria Police Victim Services, Victoria Women’s Transition House Society, The Cridge Centre for the Family and other police and government agencies to support victims while identifying and putting an end to violence against women.
If you have immediate concerns for your safety or the safety of a loved one, call 911.
Other Intimate partner violence community resources:
Vancouver Island Crisis Line – 24-hour crisis line for support, information and community resources.
Domestic Violence BC – Resources and information.
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We’re seeking qualified candidates for both police officer and civilian positions. Thinking about a career in public service? VicPD is an equal-opportunity employer. Join VicPD and help us make Victoria and Esquimalt a safer community together.
