Dealing with Spousal Abuse

Although some of the contacts featured on the site are from specific communities, other provinces, and geared towards women - many of the referrals and information are accessible to everyone and apply across Ontario. The resources can also help men who are victims of abuse.
The resources provided on this blog are not intended as a replacement to emergency assistance or to offer legal advice.

The Assaulted Women's Helpline is a toll-free crisis telephone service operating province-wide 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Interpreters in 154 languages are available to respond to callers. Phone 1-866-863-0511 or, in the Toronto calling area, 416-863-0511. TTY 1-866-863-7868.

If this is an emergency or you are afraid for your life, call 911 or your local police service.
Don't leave online tracesInternet browsers store a history of searches and visited sites. If you are worried about some one knowing that you visited this Web site use a friend's or library computer and make sure you have a safety plan. If you want to try removing the traces yourself, the links below provide the necessary instructions. Just remember: by doing so, all of the history in your browser address window will be cleared.
Cover your Web Tracks
Cover your Web Tracks (French Only)

Quick Links:
Questions and answers
60 page handbook explaining your rights, important issues and the services available to you (PDF - 278K)

Developing a Safety Plan
Leaving the abuse behind is not a decision to be taken lightly. There are, of course, many factors to be considered. We hope the information on the sites collected will help you with your considerations or, should you have already decided to leave, assist you while preparing a safety plan.
Make a safety plan
Sample safety plan
What to think about

Getting Help/Getting Out
You are not alone. There are many services across Ontario providing assistance and advice to those who are in need of help to escape the violence. The links below provide a wide range of information from learning more about preparing to leave, to locating a shelter or obtaining a peace bond.

Where to Go for Help
The Assaulted Women's Help Line - 1-866-863-0511

The Victim Support Line, although not a crisis line, will provide help by locating an appropriate community-based assistance service. If this is not an emergency, you can call the Victim Support Line number at 1-888-579-2888.

What to do when leaving an abusive relationship (who do you contact, where do you go)
Resources to help women in crisis

Shelters for abused women and their children are a safe place to go. They provide a place to stay, support and counselling, and will help you understand your rights and how to plan for the safety of you and your children. If you want help in escaping a violent relationship, call the shelter in the community closest to where you live.

Find a shelter near you
Questions and answers about women's shelters

Sexual Assault Care and Treatment Centres
What are they
Where can you find them
Resources available for victims with disabilities

Legal Information You Should Know
Questions about Legal Aid
Community legal clinics
Family Law Information Centres
Finding and working with a lawyer
Help and advice with taking the children and frequently asked questions about custody.
Custody and Access brochure (PDF - 157K)
Supervised Access
Do you know a woman who is being abused? A Legal Rights Handbook
Getting Help with Restraining Orders, Peace Bonds, etc. - See handbook page 33 to 39 (PDF - 278K)

Other Issues to Consider
What to do with your pets