PATHS

Today is International Human Rights Day. Women’s Rights are Human Rights. While we celebrate the progress that we have made, we recognize setbacks and barriers to women’s equality in Canada and around the world. We must continue working for change. #16DaysofActivism #16days

Looking at the big picture is part of PATHS advocacy work. We conduct research in Saskatchewan and use our findings to advocate for systemic change. We aim to create better outcomes for victims and survivors of IPV. #16days #16daysofactivism

If you can take 8 minutes of your day to learn more, please visit the link to hear PATHS Director of Research, Dr. Crystal Giesbrecht break down the local statistics. cbc.ca/listen/live-ra… #16DaysOfActivism #16Days

Learn how to help if you suspect a friend or loved one may be experiencing IPV in their relationship by taking our new free course. Available here -- paths.getlearnworlds.com/course/support… #16DaysOfActivism #16days

It has been 35 years since the murder of 14 young women at Polytechnique Montréal (December 6, 1989). This act of violent misogyny shook our country and led Parliament to designate December 6 as The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women.

We can work to address young people getting exposed to damaging content online through education by having open conversations about respect and equality, promoting positive role models, and teaching critical thinking to counter harmful online narratives. #16DaysOfActivism

When we think about why a person might not come forward, in addition to reliving their trauma, survivors are often faced with the strong possibility that they won’t be believed. #16DaysOfActivism #16Days

The project is currently seeking funding to run the pilot program. #16DaysOfActivism #16Days

PATHS’ research shows, that owning a horse is another barrier to leaving an abusive situation. The Horse Safekeeping project would help remove that barrier by allowing a survivor to board their horse for 30-60 days while they are in the process of leaving an abusive partner.

Recognize that there are barriers to accessing help. In SK being largely rural, survivors face unique barriers to leaving and accessing help. PATHS partnered with SK SPCA and the SK Horse Federation to develop a pilot program for horse safekeeping for survivors of IPV.

Many people believe that you must have a record of involvement with the police or RCMP or that you need to move into the shelter/transition house to access services such as support, safety planning, and counselling. This is not true! Outreach support is available 24/hrs a day!

Women (including transwomen) and their children can access residential services at services in Saskatchewan. Individuals of any gender can access support at domestic violence counselling centres and outreach programs and non–residential services at domestic violence shelters.

Shelters and DV services are free and confidential. Shelters provide more than just residential services—they offer outreach services, support groups, telephone support, referrals, and more. Visit abusehelplines.org for a list of organizations that can help. (1/2) #16days

• Let them know that there are options, such as DV shelters and counselling services, that can provide risk assessment and assist with safety planning. • Allow them to decide which option is best. • Let the person know that you will stand by them no matter what they decide.

To help the person feel more confident and regain control: • Let them know that there are no simple solutions but that change is possible. The first step is to look after their safety.

If you are supporting a friend or loved one experiencing IPV, it’s important that you ALLOW THE PERSON TO MAKE THEIR OWN DECISIONS: A person who has been abused may come to believe that they have no control in their life and no ability to make decisions.

• Are they more isolated? No longer able to visit with friends and family? • Do they make excuses for their partners behaviour? • Does the partner try to control what the person does? For example, what they wear, where they go, who they talk to, or if they can have a job.

Worried about a loved one, who may be experiencing IPV? • Has the person shown signs of being anxious, depressed, or withdrawn? • Are they using unhealthy behaviours, like increased substance use? • Have you seen unexplained physical injuries? (1/2)

You can help remove the negative stigma by believing survivors. Hearing that someone believes them can open the door for more support. #16DaysOfActivism #16days

Recognizing what behaviours are part of a healthy relationship and what behaviours are part of an unhealthy relationship are important for everyone. #16days #16DaysOfActivism2024 #16DaysOfActivism