Kamloops advocates finding new ways to support domestic violence victims during pandemic

“When people are stressed, when money is tight, when people are home more, when people don’t have their natural supports — those friend networks and their colleagues, that’s when things can become really volatile.”

Nearly one month into the COVID-19 pandemic, local domestic violence and sexual assault service centres say there have been more information-related calls about how to access support.

Dolson says with how many services and businesses have closed or reduced hours, many people may not know where they can get help right now.

“We are getting calls just wondering if we are still operational — which we are, KSACC continues to offer phone support to their clients, as well as a 24-hour support line for anyone in need.”

To work with the in-person restrictions, support services around Kamloops have boosted the virtual engagement with people in need — through Zoom, Skype, or FaceTime, along with 24/7 help lines.

The KSACC recently set up a 24-hour phone line in response to the COVID-19 crisis restricting the in-person support they normally provide at Royal Inland Hospital.

“We’re now providing phone support,” explains Dolson. “So people that have experienced a recent assault, or folks that have experienced a historic assault, but that trauma is coming up for them now. We’re able to support them, and provide information over the phone, direct them to resources in the community that they can access, and just make sure that people know that they’re not alone.”

The Kamloops YMCA / YWCA has a department dedicated to Violence Against Women Intervention and Support Services. General Manager Michele Walker says for those with a loved one, or friend who may be at risk, regular communication is key during isolation periods.

“One of the biggest things for friends and family members to know is that isolation is a dangerous time. And so don’t lose track of your family members or your friends who you feel are in dangerous situations,” she stresses. “Keep that contact going.”

Walker says a key service offered by the local support centre is safety planning with women, to determine the best way to leave an unsafe situation.

There are safe spaces available for people who need it, with the province and BC Housing announcing today (Apr. 7) that they have been working to find spots for vulnerable people to isolate in. So far, more than 900 spaces have been secured at 23 sites around B.C, with two of those locations in Kamloops making 50 spaces available.

“We have access to some additional spaces to be able to provide supports to women and children,” says Walker. “So as our transition house, our shelter fills up, we’re able to access those additional spaces.”

For more information:

The Kamloops Y Emergency Women’s Shelter can be reached on the phone at 250-374-6162, and over text at 250-682-7931.

The Kamloops Sexual Assault and Counselling Centre’s 24/7 telephone support line is 1-888-974-7278.

by Dylana Kneeshaw

Kamloops advocates finding new ways to support domestic violence victims during pandemic

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