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If the crime you are reporting is an emergency, call 9-1-1.
If the crime you are reporting is not an emergency, you can call the non-emergency line at 604-525-5411 or attend our Front Counter at 555 Columbia Street, New Westminster, BC.
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Violence against women is not just a women’s issue, it’s everyone’s issue. Violence against women is not a private family problem. It is a community and public health concern affecting not only the victim and abuser but everyone around them.
When violence does occur, women, children and families need access to services and supports to help them escape violence and recover from its effects. Responses to violence against women include:
- Ensuring services meet the needs of diverse communities.
- Enhancing the policies, practices and training of service providers.
- Supporting coordinated responses across service sectors.
Violence against women often takes the form of domestic violence. Some victims of domestic violence don’t ask for help because they fear for their safety or the safety of their children. Victims may also be financially dependent on their partner. Some victims may fear losing their home, having to move to another community, or have immigration concerns.
Victims may wish to report domestic violence to the police. Involving the police and justice system is critical to becoming safe and stopping the violence. It may also play an important role in the healing process. Victims can have a support person with them when they report a crime to the police.
Are you a victim of violence and are not ready to leave your abusive partner? This article by Maisha Z. Johnson talks about three ways to keep yourself safe when you’re not ready to leave.
More information on violence against women can be found on our Victims Assistance Unit page, the Canadian Women’s Foundation website. You can also call VictimLINK (Victim Services Information and Referrals) toll free 1-800-563-0808, 24 hours a day.
