Recognize the signs of family violence

Violence in families affects those inside and outside the family — and now a new guide will help businesses better support employees who are dealing with family violence.

Addressing Family Violence – A Guide for P.E.I. Workplaces helps employers recognize the signs of family violence, assist employees, and prevent family violence from escalating into the workplace.

It was first developed for provincial government employees and recently updated to be a resource for any workplace in Prince Edward Island. When an employee discloses that they are a victim of family violence, it’s important to believe the employee, take it seriously, and provide information and contacts for resources and trained professionals.

The guide is available at https://www.princeedwardisland.ca/en/publication/ addressing-family-violenceand-workplace.

In addition to the guide, communities across P.E.I. have been holding events this week to raise awareness about how Islanders can prevent family violence.

Family Violence Prevention Week, Feb. 11-17, has included walks in silence, information presentations and family activities. For a schedule of the remaining activities, go to stopfamilyviolence. pe.ca/2018schedule.

In addition, Wednesday was Wear Purple Day in Prince Edward Island.

Islanders were encouraged to wear purple to raise awareness of the week, to remember victims of violence and their families and to show that violence in any relationship is not acceptable.

“Even if we are not experiencing violence ourselves, there are actions — big and small — we as bystanders can take that could help save a life,” said Ann Sherman, chair of the Premier’s Action Committee on Family Violence Prevention.

“I encourage all Islanders to learn more about their role in preventing family violence and to support the victims of family violence by taking part in the many activities throughout the week.”

Throughout the week, Islanders can also follow and share daily images and messages at facebook.com/govpe and twitter.com/InfoPEI. The hashtag is #stopfamilyviolence.