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Intimate partner violence is a pattern of physical, sexual or emotional abuse that uses power and control. If your partner abuses you, your baby is at risk, too.

Don't feel ashamed. It's not your fault. And don't be afraid to ask for help. There are resources available to help keep you and your baby safe.

Some women worry about themselves and their children when home is not a safe place, and that worry is very real. Violence, trauma, sexual assault and other forms of abuse affect our health and can have long-term impacts on physical and mental well being.

If you experience violence of any kind, try to get yourself and your child to a safe place. In case of emergency, call 911 or the operator and ask for the police.

Your healthcare provider can also help by putting you in touch with the right resources. Or call VictimLINK for information about the victim services closest to you. Phone toll free: 1-800-563-0808. For deaf and hearing impaired assistance (TTY): 604-875-0885.

Here is a list of family violence resources. Don't be afraid to call. You can also visit these websites for more information:

BC Women's Hospital Woman Abuse Response Program
Website: BC Women's Hospital Woman Abuse Response Program
Phone: 604-875-3717

British Columbia Society of Transition Houses
Website: British Columbia Society of Transition Houses

Kids Help Phone
Kids Help Phone is Canada's only toll-free, 24-hour, bilingual and anonymous phone counseling, referral and Internet service for children and youth.
Phone toll-free: 1-800-668-6868
Website: www.kidshelpphone.ca

VictimLINK
A province wide telephone help line for victims of family and sexual violence and all other crimes. VictimLINK operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and provides service in 130 languages. It will help you find information on the victim services closest to you.
Website: VictimLINK
Phone toll free: 1-800-563-0808
For deaf and hearing impaired assistance (TTY): 604-875-0885

Last Updated: June 2021