SAFETY ALERT: If you are in danger, please use a computer in a safe place, or call 911. You can leave this site quickly by clicking on Quick Escape (note: this does not clear your browser history).
Note: If you have experienced family violence and are using a computer that is shared with your abuser, use extreme caution to clear your browser history when you are finished visiting this site. If you do not know how to clear your browser, search the help available for your particular browser or use a public computer if possible.
If you are in an abusive relationship, or you know someone who may be, call 1-877-977-0007 or text 204-792-5302 or 204-805-6682.
If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
Help for Women
Both women and men can be abused. Women are at greater risk of being abused by their spouses or partners than men. Family violence affects women of all ages, cultures, income levels, religions, professions and abilities. However, women with disabilities and women who are pregnant, isolated, younger and Aboriginal are seen as the most vulnerable in our society.
The publication, Family Violence in Canada: A Statistical Profile 2013 says almost 7 in 10 family violence victims were women. Women are also much more likely to be murdered by their spouses or partners than men. In 2013, 82% of intimate partner homicide victims were female.
Why women stay in abusive relationships
A woman may stay in an abusive relationship for many reasons, including:
- fear for the safety of herself and her children. Leaving a violent relationship is often very dangerous.
- economic dependence on her partner. She may fear that leaving will lead to a life of poverty for herself and her children.
- low self-esteem – worn down by emotional abuse
- partner’s promises to change and stop the violent behaviour
- shame or embarrassment about the abuse
