COVID-19 chat, text service launched for Ottawa women living with violence, abuse

OTTAWA — Crime Prevention Ottawa (CPO), the Ottawa Coalition to End Violence Against Women (OCTEVAW), Interval House of Ottawa and the Eastern Ottawa Resource Centre are pleased to announce the launch of Unsafe at Home Ottawa, a text and online chat tool that allows victims and survivors of domestic violence and abuse to get help and support.

“The service was created for those who may find it impossible to reach out by calling a crisis line when trapped at home with their abuser due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and physical distancing measures,” executive director of OCTEVAW Erin Leigh said. “We want to make sure women have access to the services they need.”

About Unsafe at Home Ottawa:

• Text and online chat service available 7 days a week from 8:30 a.m. to midnight
• Safe, encrypted technology ensures conversations are confidential and secure
• Trained counsellors provide advice, referrals and support in English and French

CPO executive director Nancy Worsfold is encouraging everyone to spread the word about this valuable tool.

“Some of our friends and neighbours are living with abuse in their homes,” Worsfold said. “Unsafe at Home Ottawa provides a secure, supportive way to reach out for help and advice. Now, more than ever, we need to look out for one another.”

Unsafe at Home Ottawa – text 613-704-5535 or chat online at unsafeathomeottawa.ca