The women's shelter in La Ronge is at capacity, but assistance is still available. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

staying safe

Advice to avoid interpersonal violence during the holidays

Dec 21, 2021 | 12:12 PM

Piwapan Women’s Centre executive director Karen Sanderson wants tri-community residents to be aware of their surroundings, be careful and try to enjoy the holidays in a healthy way to stay safe.

During Christmas and New Year’s Day celebrations, Sanderson explained interpersonal violence tends to increase due to many stress factors, including finances, addictions, being in close proximity and past traumas coming to light.

Interpersonal violence is violence within family members, whether it’s a partner, parents or other family members within the household. Sanderson added there are ways people can reduce the chance of interpersonal violence occurring during the holidays.

“They can limit where they go if they feel their space is being invaded or pushed upon or if they feel like they are going to be going into a dangerous situation,” she said. “Avoiding those kind of heavy tension areas then that can help with the interpersonal violence risks. Also, avoiding any kind of parties or stress-related gatherings where there is past issues or past trauma that may come out.”

If someone is a witness to interpersonal violence, depending on the situation and if they are not at risk of being harmed themselves, they can report it to the RCMP, they can call the Piwapan Crisis Line at 1-306-425-4090 or 811 to get advice on how to deal with it. Saskatchewan 211 also has information about services for people experiencing violence and abuse.

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The women’s shelter in La Ronge operated by Piwapan has been at capacity for the last three months. Sanderson mentioned the majority of clients stay there because of homelessness, overcrowding, domestic or interpersonal violence.

“Our house has been very consistent in being full and we’ve been trying to alleviate some of the staff with second stage housing and the hotel stays,” she said. “We have been fortunate to get some Indigenous Services Canada funding to alleviate some of those stressors.”

Mental health therapist Sheila Price will also be available during the holidays for those looking to maintain their mental health.

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com

Twitter: @saskjourno