Peel launches campaign to help identify cases of domestic violence in Mississauga

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Published November 25, 2020 at 4:18 pm

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The Region of Peel has launched a public awareness campaign to raise the raise visibility and help identify and reduce cases of Family and Intimate Partner Violence (FIPV) in the community.

The campaign begins as today is International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.

Peel is teaming up with other partners including include the City of Brampton, the City of Mississauga, Town of Caledon, Peel Regional Police, Ontario Provincial Police, and more than 10 community organizations to raise the awareness.

“Those experiencing family and intimate partner violence need to know they are not alone” said Nancy Polsinelli, Commissioner of Health Services. “Together with our partners, we’ve created a campaign to promote awareness and enable increased access to services for those experiencing violence and their families. With the increased isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic, we need to build awareness of this issue and then continue working together to build a safe, equitable and connected community for all.”

Recognizing the need to raise awareness and to stand in solidarity with survivors, Regional Council unanimously passed a motion in February 2020, for the Region and partners to shed light on this critical issue. Working together to coordinate, collaborate and problem-solve on a shared direction the group believes it is an important step in achieving meaningful, sustained, long-term change for the well-being of Peel residents.

FIPV is any type of controlling or threatening behaviour, physical or sexual violence or abuse between intimate partners or family members. In 2019, police in Peel responded to more than 19,000 incidents of domestic violence. On average, that’s 50 disputes every day or two each hour. These numbers are just what gets reported; most incidents are not reported.

To help make Peel a safe, healthy and inclusive community for all to thrive in, citizens need to live free from violence. Residents who need support, or know someone who does, can confidentially call toll-free: 2-1-1, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In an emergency, residents are advised to call the police at 9-1-1.

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