Rates of intimate partner violence (IPV) and family violence in Saskatchewan exceeded both provincial and national averages in 2023, according to newly released data from the Saskatchewan RCMP.
The RCMP reported 813 incidents of IPV and 890 cases of family violence per 100,000 people last year, compared to provincial rates of 710 and 741 per 100,000, respectively. These figures are part of a nationwide increase in such violence, as highlighted in a report by the Canadian Centre for Justice and Community Safety Statistics released on October 24, 2024.
Rising Incidents and Regional Trends
Over the past five years, Saskatchewan RCMP has recorded a 13% increase in calls related to IPV and family violence. The Central District saw a 19% rise, the North District recorded a 14% increase, and the South District experienced a 7% uptick.
Intimate partner violence involves actions such as physical and sexual assault, harassment, and threats by current or former partners. Family violence includes abuse by spouses, parents, siblings, children, or other relatives.
Local Support Services Seeing a Surge
Michelle Weber, Executive Director of the West Central Crisis and Family Support Centre, confirmed that local support agencies have also observed an increase in demand for programming related to IPV and family violence.
“We absolutely have experienced the rise in domestic violence (DV), IPV, and intimate partner violence-related programming,” said Weber.
She noted that the centre’s victimization statistics consistently surpass RCMP-reported numbers due to the broader scope of their services.
“The RCMP’s mandate is narrowed to criminal reporting, whereas community-based organizations (CBOs) like ours capture a wider range of victimization cases,” Weber explained.
RCMP’s Specialized Response
Saskatchewan RCMP has developed targeted strategies to address IPV and family violence. Sgt. Kim Stewart, the RCMP’s Domestic Violence Coordinator, emphasized the importance of specialized responses.
“Intimate partner and family violence can happen to anyone, across all socioeconomic backgrounds,” said Sgt. Stewart.
Domestic Violence Coordinators provide investigation support, offender risk assessments, and victim safety planning. They also oversee requests under Clare’s Law, which allows police to disclose a person’s history of domestic violence to those at risk.
Sgt. Stewart also reviews applications for the RCMP Family Violence Initiative Fund (FVIF), which funds community programs to combat IPV and family violence.
“Saskatchewan RCMP, in collaboration with our community partners, plays a vital role in public education about intimate partner violence and enhancing victim safety,” she added.
Seeking Help
If you or someone you know is experiencing violence from a partner or family member, help is available. Contact your nearest police service or RCMP detachment, call 310-RCMP, or reach out to local crisis support services like the West Central Crisis and Family Support Centre.