Intimate partner violence (IPV) is any behaviour within an intimate relationship that causes physical, psychological or sexual harm to those in the relationship.
An intimate relationship can be defined as legally married, separated or divorced partners, current or former common-law or dating partners. It can occur in either heterosexual or same-sex relationships. It is very difficult for victims to disclose, possible reasons for this may be due to fear of criticism or alienation from family or a lack of confidence in the ability of community agencies to provide services. It is suspected that IPV for males, LGBTQI, indigenous and visible minorities is even more underreported. Victim Services provides support to anyone affected by crime and tragic events.
IPV is not limited to actions that meet criminal code definitions, for example: financial abuse, isolation from family or friends or monitoring cell phone and social media accounts.
IPV is the most common form of violence against women in Canada. For information on safety planning please see the Safety Planning section.
In Ontario there is a domestic or sexual violence job-protected leave of absence. It provides up to 10 days and 15 weeks in a calendar year of time off to be taken for specific purposes when an employee or an employee’s child has experienced or been threatened with domestic or sexual violence. The first five days of leave taken in a calendar year are paid, and the rest are unpaid.
For more information and eligibility please visit The Ontario Government.
Victims of Intimate Partner Violence may be eligible for benefits from the Victim Quick Response Program+ . For more information please contact Victim Services of Brant 519-752-3140.