Canada is developing a system to help victims of domestic violence

The federal government is working with its provinces under a bilateral agreement to develop a system of remote psychological care.

On August 10, Canada's federal Minister of Women, Gender Equality and Youth Affairs, Marci Ian, along with her Manitoba counterpart, Rochelle Squires, announced $30 million CAD in funding for the hotline network and began developing contracts with every region in Canada.

Marci Ian noted that the need for remote psychological care increased manifold during the pandemic, so funding will go not only to maintain the system already in place, but also to develop it and prevent gender-based violence:

"We know that these hotlines are a lifeline for women fleeing domestic violence, as they are a crucial connection to the services that ensure their safety. Today’s historic investment is another step towards supporting survivors and creating a safer Canada for everyone."

Manitoba became the first province to sign a bilateral treaty with the federal government. Rochelle Squires emphasized that the region has one of the highest rates of family violence in the country:

"This violence primarily affects women and girls, disproportionally affecting those living in rural, remote, and northern communities; Indigenous people; people of colour; and 2SLGBTQQIA people."

Squires believes in this project, believing it necessary to ensure that everyone who has experienced gender violence receives support.

According to the latest data, the number of calls for help increased by 231% from 2020 to 2022. Crisis centers are actively recruiting volunteers, seeking resources, and developing protocols for effective psychological counseling for those in distress.

To date, the Canadian government has contributed about $230 million CAD to women's shelters, sexual assault centers, and other support organizations. As a result, more than 1.3 million abused people have gained access to psychosocial support and resources.