For urgent help
- Call 911 if you or someone else is in immediate danger.
- Call 211 or text 211 (24/7) to connect with support services. Free, confidential and available in over 170 languages.
- Call 1-855-242-3310 (24/7) for immediate counselling and crisis support for Indigenous Peoples across Canada.
Know what to do
You don’t have to have all the answers or solve the situation to support someone affected by gender-based violence. Listening and connecting them to support can make a difference. Find information, tools and Alberta-based resources to help you respond with care, respect and safety.
How to support someone
What you can do
Listen without judgment
Let them share what they want, when they are ready. Believe them.
Show support
Say things like: “I’m glad you told me” or “You don’t deserve this.”
Respect their choices
Everyone's circumstances are unique. Let them know you're concerned and understand that decisions about next steps are deeply personal.
Share support options
Offer information about helplines or services. Let them decide when to reach out.
Think about safety
If you believe someone is in immediate danger, call 911.
What to avoid
- Do not blame them or question their decisions.
- Do not confront the person causing harm.
- Do not share their story without permission.
Even one caring conversation can help someone take the next step.
Bystander intervention resources in Alberta
Bystander intervention is about recognizing concerning behaviour and taking safe, appropriate action to prevent harm. It helps prevent gender-based violence, sexual violence and harassment, and supports more respectful communities across Alberta.
Learn how to be an active bystander
- SHIFT: The Project to End Domestic Violence (University of Calgary): Alberta-based research and resources focused on preventing domestic and sexual violence
- Bystander Intervention Strategies (Government of Canada): Overview of bystander intervention and the 5Ds for workplaces and communities
- Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton (SACE): Education on recognizing sexual violence and choosing safe, effective ways to intervene.
- Association of Alberta Sexual Assault Services (AASAS): Provincial leadership, coordination and training to support prevention education.
Find local support and training
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Community-based sexual assault centres across Alberta offer education sessions, workshops and resources, including bystander intervention and prevention approaches tailored to local communities.