Both Wood Buffalo RCMP and Waypoints have reported increases in domestic violence-related calls this year.
From Jan. 1 to July 1 2020, Wood Buffalo RCMP reported 632 calls, compared to 491 the year prior – a 29 per cent increase.
Between April 1 and Sept. 30, 2019 Waypoints reported that of 718 calls, 126 of them were domestic violence related.
In 2020 that number nearly doubled at 207 of 619 calls.
When asked if there is any significant link to the COVID-19 pandemic, Executive Director of Waypoints Michele Taylor said there are many factors and variables at play.
“There seems to be no doubt that family violence has significantly increased in our region. To what extend it’s very difficult to say.”
Waypoints does, however, note that research from around the world shows an increase in family violence during the pandemic.
Family violence includes domestic violence, sexual violence, child abuse, neglect and sexual exploitation and other types of abuse and neglect.
While calls related to domestic violence increased, Director of Program Development at Waypoints Tracey Lamb, explained that these calls range from RCMP seeing if there is space for someone, to questions, to someone looking for support.
In terms of the Emergency Women and Children’s Shelter, the organization has had to reduce the number of beds available to reduce the sharing of bathrooms due to COVID-19.
Bedrooms are organized in modules, meaning that two or three bedrooms would share a bathroom.
Taylor explained that instead of 45 beds, there are now 18 modules available.
“That doesn’t mean we just have 18 beds because if a mother comes in with children, obviously they can use up to all three of those beds in a module.”
She explained that during the first six months of the pandemic, people using the facility also had to self-isolate for 10 days.
The 10-day isolation is no longer required due to other health and safety protocols in place.
Other changes made due to the pandemic include increased cleaning, mandatory masks and a sign-up system for community rooms.
Family Violence Prevention Month
November is Family Violence Prevention Month in Alberta.
This year’s theme is Know Where to Turn and Waypoints wants you to know that their Outreach Program continues to provide free mental health and domestic violence supports.
Outreach Manager at Waypoints Nicole Greville said we’re in a double pandemic.
“Folks are isolated, they’re stressed and overwhelmed, all of which are natural responses. But we want our community to know that if your home or relationship is unhealthy or not safe, there are resources, supports and helpers here to assist you on your journey.”
Waypoints will host activates and events throughout the month of November, kicking off with a virtual breakfast where Mayor Don Scott will proclaim November as Family Violence Prevention Month in Wood Buffalo.
If you’re heading to a movie, you’ll also see promotional material on the screens at Landmark Cinema.
You can also wear purple, share Waypoints’ social media posts and using #KnowWhereToTurn and #ViolenceFreeRMWB.
For a list of virtual events you can visit Waypoints’ Facebook page.
According to the province, Alberta has the third highest rate of self-reported spousal violence in Canada.
Waypoints has created the Communication & Relationship series for anyone wanting to find out more about making healthier choices relationships.
If you have questions, concerns or are experiencing family violence you’re encouraged to phone Waypoints.
The organization can help you find resources and can connect you with the right supports.
Lamb noted that they also work with support people, not just people experiencing violence.
“If they don’t want to talk to us that’s okay, we will pass you the information to provide to them.”
Unity House Crisis Line 24/7: 780-743-1190
Sexual Violence Crisis Line: 780-791-6708
Support and Counselling System Navigator (office hours) intake@waypointswb.ca or 780-750-8650
