If you or someone you know is dealing with intimate partner violence (IPV), there are many supports and resources out there. (especially for Canada / B.C.) plus some general guidance.
Below we've included a few resources that may be able to help provide you with support. In addition to those, please reach out to your local MLA and MP to help advocate for you and change in our system.
Immediate help / emergency
If anything happens where you feel threatened or unsafe please call 911 for immediate assistance. Do not try to sort things out alone if there is any risk.
VictimLink BC (24/7): 1-800-563-0808 or EMAIL: 211-VICTIMLINKBC@UWBC.CA
They can connect you to safe housing, crisis support, legal help, and counseling in your area.
Community-Based Victim Services: They provide advocates who can attend court with you, liaise with Crown Counsel, and make sure your voice is heard.
Legal Aid BC (1-866-577-2525): Offers free legal advice in cases involving intimate partner violence.
Police-based Victim Services: If you reported to police, ask to be connected with the victim services worker attached to that detachment.
National / Provincial Resources in Canada
Here are some services and supports available across Canada, and specifically in British Columbia:
| ShelterSafe.ca | A website that helps women and children find the nearest shelter, safe house, or emergency housing. ShelterSafe |
| iHEAL App | A free, secure app to help with risk assessment, safety planning, and locating local crisis services. iHEAL |
| Canada.ca – Get Help Now | Information on crisis hotlines, shelters, legal and mental health supports. Canada.ca |
| Legal Aid BC / Legal Support in BC | Help with restraining orders, legal advice, navigating family law, rights as a survivor. Province of British Columbia |
| Priority Placement Program (BC Housing) | Gives women fleeing violence priority access to social housing units. BC Housing |
| Victim Services & Violence Against Women Directory (BC) | Directory of local services. Province of British Columbia+1 |
What You Can Do / Steps
Here are practical things people often do to help themselves safely if they’re experiencing IPV. These aren’t always easy, but sometimes they help in navigating very difficult situations:
- Safety Plan
Think ahead about how to leave safely, what to take (IDs, documents, money), where to go. Try to have a plan for emergencies (if you need to leave in a hurry). - Document the abuse
If possible and safe, keep records (photos, messages, medical records). This can help with legal proceedings or getting protections. - Talk to someone you trust
A friend, family member, counselor, or advocate. Isolation often helps abusers, so having someone know increases safety. - Explore legal protections
Look into restraining orders, protection orders, custody rights, immigration status if applicable. Qualified legal help (e.g. legal aid) is important. - Use hotline / crisis lines
These are often anonymous, safe, and staffed by people trained in IPV. - Mental health supports
Therapy, peer support groups, and social service agencies can help with trauma, fear, depression, anxiety.