Low call volume worries Gillian’s Place director
Niagara agencies that help women who have experienced violence have noted fewer calls for help during the COVID-19 pandemic, despite reports that abuse is likely escalating in many homes due to isolation.
“That is deeply concerning to us,” said Tanja Loeb, executive director of Gillian’s Place in St. Catharines and chair of the Committee to End Violence Against Women.
“We know that women and children are still at risk, if not more so, with the increased isolation.”
Loeb said it’s important women who are suffering know that shelters remain open to provide assistance.
“And if you know of a woman who may be isolated, more than ever it is important to reach out to her and if you think she may be in danger, to call the police,”
Loeb added.
Women’s Place of South Niagara, which operates shelters in Niagara Falls and Welland, also saw a recent decrease in calls.
“Crisis calls were low for the first few weeks of COVID-19,” said executive director Jennifer Gauthier.
There are likely several reasons for that, she said, such as women not having a safe space to call for help with their partner in the home, fear of living in a communal environment in a shelter during a pandemic, and feeling there’s a lack of resources available.
“Don’t hesitate to call the shelters,” Gauthier said. “We have safe spaces, all the safety protocols are in place, and we’re still providing shelter.”
She said shelters are still receiving intake calls, but those who are reaching out are usually doing so with the assistance of the Niagara Regional Police.
The Niagara Sexual Assault Centre has also seen a decline in requests for therapy since the COVID-19 crisis began.
“People may be unaware that we are still taking requests to be on our waiting list for individual therapy because our office is closed to the public right now,” said Donna Christie, public education co-ordinator.
The agency’s crisis line, meanwhile, has remained at the same level, taking 75 to 90 calls per month. Counsellors are working from home, assisting clients over the phone and online.
“It has been challenging for many of our clients, especially those who have children at home and no private space,” said Christie. “There were some clients who were reluctant at first to try remote therapy, but as the crisis continues there has been more acceptance.”
The Committee to End Violence
Against Women is a coalition of 24 Niagara-based organizations working to end gender-based violence against women and their children.
Staff Sgt. Paul Koscinski, the NRP representative on the coalition, said: “We recognize that women and children living in abusive home environments may find themselves isolated and at increased risk of harm, now more than ever.
“We are grateful for the assistance provided by our community partners in supporting women and children experiencing abuse, and encourage anyone who suspects that someone is being abused to call the police.”
While calls have gone up, Koscinski said, that hasn’t translated into a corresponding increase in domestic violence complaints.
He said police received calls, for example, from residents concerned over something they have seen or heard in their neighbourhood.
“I think the increase in calls is a positive indicator that people are concerned for the welfare of others and are calling police to report any suspicions they may have about their welfare,” he said. For assistance: Nova House, Niagara Falls: 905-356-5800, ARUNova@wpsn.ca Serenity Place, Welland: 905788-0113, ARUWelland@wpsn.ca Gillian’s Place, St. Catharines: 24-hour support line – 905-6848331 Niagara Sexual Assault Centre: 24-hour crisis and information line - 905-682-4584