Family Violence Initiative

COMPENDIUM OF PROMISING PRACTICES TO REDUCE VIOLENCE AND INCREASE SAFETY OF ABORIGINAL WOMEN IN CANADA – COMPENDIUM ANNEX: DETAILED PRACTICE DESCRIPTIONS

History:: The program was initiated in 2004 and has not changed in any discernible way over that period of time, other than through the continuing increase of awareness in the community. This has led to a greater collaboration with other organizations and programs.

Goals & Objectives:: To approach the issue of family violence in a holistic manner that provides prevention, intervention and protection for those impacted by family violence.
Traditional/Indigenous ways:: Traditional ways are incorporated whenever possible.
Components of program:: The program provides continuous healing circles and workshops for Aboriginal women and men on various topics relating to family violence and related challenges. In the specific case of women, the program addresses issues of health, traditional parenting skills, addictions and violence in all, forms. The program seeks to assist clients in continuing to build a strong home for themselves and their families. In terms of family violence, the programming attempts to raise awareness and help clients develop the tools necessary to deal with family violence in a preventative manner as well as a reactive response. As part of this larger goal, other issues may have to be dealt with, such as addiction issues, knowledge of the cycle of violence, mental health issues or economic issues.
Services/How they work:: Services are provided on site at the facility.
Funding:: Funding is provided by Saskatchewan Justice; the Friendship Centre; the United Way; the Fire Department; the Police Department; and Social Services.

Involvement of Target Groups:: There is constant feedback from clients about the services provided by the program as well as networking with other organizations every month.
Partners:: N/A
Other relationships:: N/A

Evaluation:: An evaluation has been completed.
Highlights of Evaluation Findings:: The report was not made available publicly, and no specific results can be provided.

Measures of Success:: Success is measured by the increase in referrals to the program.
Achievements:: The program is a provider of resources to Aboriginal women who may not otherwise be able to access services. The services are increasing client awareness of the options available to them.
Challenges:: Obtaining funding and limited human resources. A limitation of space in which to operate has been difficult.

Replication Advice:: The program is considered replicable. The funding and structure of the program can be replicated if it is built on the needs of the community. There is a challenge in replicating the expertise, compassion, and multitude of skills that a Family Violence worker should bring to the process. A trusting, informed and open relationship must be established between the worker and the client-base. Without that relationship a program may not have the success they are hoping for.
Resources:: Adequate funding, properly trained staff and facility space for the programming would be necessary to ensure the program's success.