Family and intimate partner violence is everyone’s concern. In 2023, we declared family and intimate partner violence an epidemic in Peel Region to raise awareness and support for a crisis that affects mostly women. There are over 44 reported incidents daily totalling over 16,000 reports in 2023. A woman in Peel is strangled every single day. These numbers only scratch the surface, as most cases remain unreported, emphasizing the urgent need for increased awareness, systemic change, and support for survivors.
“In this fifth annual Break the Silence campaign we continue to raise awareness of Intimate Partner and Gender Based Violence as an epidemic and work together with our partners to break down the walls of silence that enables violence against women. We encourage everyone to recognize the signs of abuse and speak up if they know someone experiencing abuse; let victims feeling isolated know they are not alone; and for those experiencing abuse, to seek help. We all have a role to play in ending family and intimate partner violence, and to make Peel a safe, equitable and connected community for all.”
– Regional Councillor Rowena Santos, Wards 1 & 5, Chair-Community Services
Beginning November 25, 2024, on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and throughout the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, Peel Region and its partners are launching the annual Break the Silence campaign. This initiative encourages residents to talk about family and intimate partner violence in our community. Now in its fifth year, the awareness campaign aims to challenge misconceptions about family and intimate partner violence while ensuring survivors know there is help and support available. The campaign will be visible across Peel in both print and digital formats and will include downloadable materials in multiple languages.
Family and intimate partner violence transcends physical harm, encompassing emotional, economic, and psychological abuse. Councillor Santos has worked extensively on addressing these issues, advocating for systemic changes and survivor support. Its pervasive impact threatens survivors’ physical and mental well-being, often resulting in long-term consequences like anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). During the COVID-19 pandemic, rates of family violence surged due to isolation, economic strain, and restricted access to critical support services, further underscoring the need for urgent intervention and comprehensive solutions.
Contact Flyer for Brampton and Mississauga
Translated Flyers
This initiative is a collaborative effort involving over 25 community organizations, the City of Brampton, the City of Mississauga, the Town of Caledon, Peel Regional Police, and Ontario Provincial Police – Caledon Detachment. It aligns with the Family Violence focus area in Peel’s Community Safety and Well-being Plan.
Quick Facts
- In 2023, Peel Police responded to just over 16,000 incidents of family and intimate partner violence. That’s 44 disputes every day or almost 2 every hour.
- Peel Police reported that the highest number of 2023 mobile dispatched calls for service were family and intimate partner violence related.
- In Peel, of the charges that were laid in 2023 for intimate partner violence-related incidents, 79% of the victims were women.
- Peel Police laid 617 intimate partner violence strangulation charges in 2023.
- There were 6 family and intimate partner homicides in Peel Region in 2023.
If you or someone you know needs support:
- If you or someone you know needs support: Call text, or chat with 211
- Embrave: 1-855-676-8515
- Victim Services of Peel: 905-568-1068
- Family Transition Place: 1-800-265-9178
- Call Caledon\Dufferin Victim Services at 905-951-3838
- If it’s an emergency call 911 immediately.
Learn more about family and intimate partner violence in Peel, including common misconceptions and available resources for support: peelregion.ca/BreakTheSilence.
Additional Resource
- Community report appendix – Images and captions from survivors and witnesses of family violence.
