Project Co-ordinator Colleen Purdon says the Neighbours, Friends, and Families Campaign – aimed at raising awareness about violence against women – is now going to focus on the workplace.
As part of a tour of municalities across Grey Bruce, Purdon visited Kincardine Council on Wednesday to ask for their support.
She wants Council to lead as an example, training staff to recognize signs of abuse and to feel more comfortable approaching potential victims and perpetrators with support.
Purdon says it’s all about taking advantage of networks of people that already exist, such as offices, and using those groups to spread awareness about abuse.
Purdon says they’re also targeting men in this year’s campaign.
She says abuse has traditionally been seen as a women’s issue, making it hard for men to get involved in the fight against it.
Purdon says abuse is a very real problem in rural communities, where women are more isolated and economically dependent.
She says the Neighbours, Friends, and Families Campaign is a preventative tool that aims to involve whole communities and initiate change.
Purdon says the province-wide campaign provides training and resources for anyone interested in becoming involved.
