This release was issued under a previous government.
Family violence can happen to anyone, regardless of their age, ethnicity, education, sexual orientation or gender. It happens to couples who are dating and to those who are married or living together. It also happens to children and seniors.
The Government of Alberta and communities across the province are taking action to address family violence. Led by Human Services, eight ministries are involved in the provincial response to family violence. They work closely with local community agencies, women’s shelters, sexual assault services, law enforcement, health services and others to help Albertans in a family violence situation.
“The physical, emotional and mental impacts of violence, on families and communities throughout Alberta, cannot be overstated. No one should live in fear for their life and safety, nor suffer alone as a survivor. We will continue to work with community partners to take strong action on prevention efforts, and provide critical supports to survivors of family violence.”
Recent action to prevent family violence:
- August 2016, Government proclaimed the Residential Tenancies (Safer Spaces for Victims of Domestic Violence) Amendment Act which allows an individual to end a tenancy early without financial penalty.
- Since September 2015, Human Services has given $11.6 million in Family and Community Safety Program grants for 53 projects across the province that focus on family violence prevention.
- This past year, $5 million in financial benefits has been provided to 2,700 Albertans fleeing from abuse to help with costs for personal needs, emergency transportation, shelter and damage deposits.
Purpose of Family Violence Prevention Month
In 1986, the Hinton Society for the Prevention of Family Violence, the only one of its kind in Alberta, was formed by a small group of concerned citizens. The Society started an education campaign aimed at family violence prevention and at improving local services.
Since then, every November is a call to action for Albertans to address family violence in their communities. This year marks the 30th anniversary of Family Violence Prevention Month in Alberta.
Find information and resources by calling the 24-hour Family Violence Info Line at 310-1818, toll-free, or visit endfamilyviolence.albert.ca.