AMHERST – Friends and families of victims of domestic violence will be better prepared to provide support with a new education program and toll-free information telephone line.
Neighbours, Friends and Families is a public education awareness program to help people spot signs of domestic violence and teach them to approach possible victims without making the situation worse.
People from groups such as law enforcement, transition houses, intervention programs, Mi'kmaq Legal Support Network and government staff were trained to educate community members about effectively supporting victims of violence. They will reach out to people at their work, and in the community with presentations.
Those affected by domestic violence can also call the province's first domestic violence toll-free line at 1-855-225-0220. Transition house staff and volunteers from across the province will monitor the line 24 hours a day, and provide support on how to help the abused, or abuser, and spot warning signs of abuse.
Neighbours, Friends and Families is an initiative of the province's Domestic Violence Action Plan and is a partnership between the province, Transition House Association of Nova Scotia and community volunteers. The Neighbours, Friends and Families Program was developed by the province of Ontario and Western University and was adapted to Nova Scotia.
To learn more about the program e-mail nff@gov.ns.ca .
To access supports and resources for victims of domestic violence, visit www.nsdomesticviolence.ca .
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