In New Brunswick, individuals facing gender-based or intimate partner violence now have access to a new resource tailored to their needs. The “It’s Your Call” campaign, initiated by 211 New Brunswick, offers a 24/7 hotline that connects victims to various social services. With options ranging from safe housing to medical care, the service aims to remove barriers and provide crucial support. Shelly Steeves, director of marketing and communications for United Way Moncton, emphasized the stress victims experience and the difficulty they often face in finding appropriate help. By providing direct access to information, 211 New Brunswick plays a critical role in guiding individuals to the resources available to them.
The 211 service, operational in Canada since 2020, has always aimed to connect citizens with social, government, and community services. However, this campaign marks the first time dedicated resources have been established specifically to aid victims of gender-based and intimate partner violence. The anonymity and ease of accessing these services through 211—either by phone or via the website nb.211.ca—allow individuals to explore their options without the pressure of formal reporting. This flexibility respects the varied circumstances that victims may find themselves in, enabling them to decide on the best course of action for their personal situation.
Trained personnel staff the hotline, offering empathetic and understanding support to callers, whether they are the victims themselves or those seeking help for a loved one. Valerie Roy-Lang, director of the Réseau des services pour victimes de violence du N.-B., highlighted the risk victims face in maintaining discretion, especially in volatile environments. By encouraging the use of the easily memorable 211 number, the service seeks to minimize the challenges victims encounter when reaching out for help, especially when they need to be cautious about revealing their intentions.
Barriers to seeking help for victims of gender-based violence can be substantial, as pointed out by Roy-Lang. Financial constraints, questions about childcare, and uncertainty regarding available options can dissuade individuals from taking the first step. The launch of this campaign comes in light of the New Brunswick legislative assembly’s resolution to declare gender-based violence a systemic crisis, spotlighting the urgent need for resources and support. This recognition is coupled with alarming statistics that place New Brunswick at the forefront of Canada’s intimate partner violence rates, particularly within rural communities.
Over the past 12 years, the province has witnessed a nearly 40% increase in reported intimate partner violence, making the need for support more pressing than ever. With this new initiative, 211 New Brunswick aims to provide not only immediate assistance but also long-term support strategies for victims navigating these challenging circumstances. Since its establishment, the 211 service has already connected over 100,000 individuals to various social support avenues, indicating significant demand for such resources.
Overall, the “It’s Your Call” campaign represents a significant step toward addressing the pervasive issue of gender-based violence in New Brunswick. By equipping victims with the tools to access tailored support 24/7, it not only fosters a safer environment but also empowers individuals to take control of their situations without fear. The initiative reflects a broader societal commitment to tackling the epidemic of gender-based violence, ensuring victims are heard, supported, and provided with actionable paths forward.
