Domestic Violence Accord to be signed in Castlegar tomorrow
By Kyra Hoggan
Castlegar women struggling with domestic abuse may find it easier to get help, after the signing of the Domestic Violence Accord tomorrow.
Thursday will see representatives from fully 20 local organizations and agencies gathered at the Community Forum, signing off on 20 protocols that offer clear action plans in the event a woman experiencing violence reaches out for help. Leanna Kozak, of RCMP Victim Services and Castlegar Community Services Society, said she and fellow project coordinator Kris Taks (also with Community Services) have been working on developing the protocols for a year now, and the Accord promises three key benefits to the community. “First, it’s an important networking opportunity, bringing service providers from the police to public health to transition houses together,” Kozak explained. “They can get to know each other, and become more aware of the entire range of resources available in our community.” Secondly, she said, the Accord will ensure consistent service to women seeking help, regardless where or to whom they reach out. With fully 20 protocols, the Accord anticipates virtually any potential situation and provides step-by-step guidelines on what to do. The third piece involves education: Kozak said people don’t always know what to say or how to support a woman suffering with domestic violence, nor yet what resources they should be tapping to help. “Her first call may be her only call – you may be the only person this woman reaches out to,” she said. “It’s so important that you know what to do; how to respond; who you can call. We all have a small part we can play in helping.” Signatories will include representatives from the local high school, the hospital, School District 20, RCMP, Freedom Quest, and many more. “There’s a lot of value in having service providers compare notes and be aware of what everyone is doing within the community – including the City of Castlegar,” said Deb McIntosh, who will be signing the Accord in her role as Deputy Mayor. “There’s no reason any woman or family in this community should have a tough time getting the help they need. All the resources are here.” As for why so many people are focussed on an issue we don’t hear much about in Castlegar, Kozak said people simply don’t realize how widespread the problem really is. “I’m kept very busy in both of my roles (RCMP Victim Services and women’s counsellor),” she said. “If there was no problem, I’d be twiddling my thumbs. “It’s a real concern, and the more we can do to ensure women receive the support and assistance they need, the better.”
