Chapter 4

An Exemplary Story

4.1.3 Promoting security for women victims of violence

Perseverance pays off, as illustrated by the case of six violence-against-women (VAW) agencies in Simcoe County that recognized the need to work together to better serve Francophone women who are experiencing domestic violence or are sexual assault survivors. In 2008, the participating agencies, funded by the Ministry of Community and Social Services, committed to the delivery of French-language services (FLS) by signing their first FLS referral agreement. The implementation of the agreement, however, did not produce the expected increase in service demand.

In November 2011, the agencies reviewed the agreement to ensure seamless referrals of women requesting services in French. On December 7, 2012, the VAW agencies held a mandatory one-day training session to provide approximately 50 front-line staff members with an overview of a revised process. The Commissioner attended the event as keynote speaker and provided context for the importance of delivering high-quality services in French.

Agency staff enjoyed the event and came away with a better understanding of FLS and their obligations in that regard. As a result, referrals to the residential and non-residential agencies providing FLS have increased. The partner agencies are committed to continuing to adjust their referral agreement as needed to ensure effective delivery of FLS in the area of VAW in Simcoe County.