Alberta women living in violence further isolated due to COVID-19, report says

The COVID-19 pandemic is making it harder than it already was for Alberta women and their children to escape living situations in which they're experiencing domestic violence, according to a report released on Wednesday.

From April 1 to the end of September, 2,725 women, children and seniors were admitted to emergency shelters across the province. That's down from 5,061 over the same period last year, says the 2020 Shelter Snapshot published by the Alberta Council of Women's Shelters. 

Part of the problem is that many women are not able to call for help or safely leave their homes, since their abusive partners are always there, the report says.

"Domestic violence itself hasn't gone anywhere. It's gotten worse," said Jan Reimer, executive director of the provincial council.  "We are all very worried."

The report also notes that RCMP recorded an 11.7 per cent increase of domestic violence calls from March to September, compared with last year. The Edmonton Police Service had a 16 per cent increase from January to November, in comparison with the same time period in 2019 . 

Reimer said the data suggests women who might otherwise be ready to leave dangerous living arrangements are instead trying to keep the peace rather than go to a shelter because they're worried about getting infected with COVID-19.

But that's leaving those women increasingly under the scrutiny and control of the perpetrators, the report says. 

"We understand why many women are staying put and not reaching out. They are the best judges of how to keep themselves safe," Reimer said. "And when they need us, we're here and ready to help."

Reimer said violence against women has always been akin somewhat to a hidden pandemic, but now the global viral pandemic is making it worse. 

"It's there in the shadows of the pandemic," she said. "We've heard stories about women making phone calls from closets." 

The report says it's important to get the message out that shelters are adapting their services to meet the physical distancing, disinfecting and isolation rules set out by public health officials so they can continue to help the women, children and seniors who need it.

Advocates also want people to know that you don't have to stay in a shelter to get help from one.

"Our members are trained to help women assess their danger levels and create safety plans. We encourage anyone experiencing violence or abuse to call their local women's shelter," the report says.

You can connect with a shelter near you by calling 1-866-331-3933. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.