SUBSCRIBE: Missing news on social media? Subscribe to CHAT News Today's DAILY newsletter and stay up to date with your city.

Outreach centre helping more victims of domestic violence

Nov 9, 2017 | 3:31 PM

 

MEDICINE HAT – November is Family Violence Prevention Month.

The Medicine Hat Women’s Shelter is holding a number of events throughout the month to raise awareness about domestic violence.

They’re also talking about the success of the outreach office that opened back in March.

The goal was to provide a public centre where anyone experiencing domestic violence could go for programs, services and help.

The office in the ridge professional building also allows them to help more men who are victims of abuse.

Program manager Leanne Biem says they actually have quite a high case load of male victims and that over 50 men are actively seeking help.

“We look at it as a family systems issue, family violence, so we try to reach out to as many members of the family as possible,” Biem explained. “It is very difficult for a male to come to a Women’s Shelter and access services, so this has been really ideal for the men.”

The centre has started up a number of support groups and plans to form one for me who are dealing with domestic violence.

According to the province over 8,000 women and children were admitted to shelters across Alberta last year.

Over 27,000 received supports through outreach programs.

Those looking for help or assistance with family violence are encouraged to reach out to the centre located in the Ridge professional building on 7th Street SW.

A 24 hour helpline is also availible by calling 403-529-1091.