Legal Publications and Projects
Do you plan to leave an abusive partner or do you know someone who is being abused?
Here you will find YWCA Metro Vancouver's publications and projects available to assist women.
Sadly, far too many women need help in leaving an abusive relationship. One in two Canadian women over the age of 16 has been the victim of physical or sexual violence and, every year, more than 100,000 women and children seek safety in Canadian shelters. Thousands of women are seriously injured by their partners – on average each year, 73 die.
Stopping the Violence
A guide for women facing domestic violence
This brochure and poster lists transition houses, crisis lines and other support organizations for women leaving abuse.
Leaving an Abusive Relationship
Information on Custody and Access for Women with Children
This plain language guide of legal processes and terms is available in English, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Punjabi, Spanish and Vietnamese. Download the language you need.
This guide talks about:
- What Is Abuse?
- Where to Get Help
- Protecting Yourself and Your Children
- What the Courts Can Do to Help
- What Will Happen to the Children?
- Custody, Primary Residence, Access, and Guardianship
- Mediation: The Right Option for You?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Checklist: What to Take with You when You Leave
Mothers Without Legal Status Project
The YWCA is seeing a growing number of mothers without legal status, many of whom have fled their relationships because of abuse. These women are unable to work or collect income assistance, yet unable to leave Canada and take their children with them. Read Olivia's story.
Read A New Beginning for Mothers Without Legal Status in Canada.
Information for Service Providers
This booklet for front-line advocates gives detailed information about how to best help mothers without status.
Find out more about the Mothers Without Legal Status project.
Court-Related Abuse and Harassment
This research report, written by YWCA Legal Educator Andrea Vollans, documents how men use the legal system to further abuse and torment their ex-partners.
