Awareness Campaign: Support for Confined Vulnerable People

Gatineau, April 15, 2020. – With the pandemic upon us, the government's instructions have to be taken seriously. However, some of those instructions, for instance for confinement, expose vulnerable people to a greater risk of assault, mistreatment and even physical or psychological abuse. This is why the Service de police de la Ville de Gatineau (SPVG) is reaching out to the public and launching an awareness campaign in support of vulnerable people.

At a glance

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Given the current need for social isolation, when people are asked to limit contact with family and close friends and remain at home to reduce the risk of propagation of COVID-19, some people find themselves in danger in their own homes: - children at risk of mistreatment, assault or exploitation; - victims of domestic abuse; and - seniors vulnerable to abuse and mistreatment.

●	To that end, the SPVG is calling on the public for neighbours to keep their eyes and ears open and report any behaviour, physical or psychological violence or neglect that they may be concerned about.

●	In the current circumstances, it is imperative that Gatineau residents look out for one another.

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The SPVG is posting images of the campaign on its Web site where everyone can access them, and invites everyone to share them throughout their community. Organizations and businesses can also help by sharing them throughout their networks. The poster and images can be downloaded from www.gatineau.ca/portail/default.…

●	The SPVG is also working with outreach agencies and local partners to deploy the campaign and reach the greatest possible number of people.

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If you witness a situation of abuse, mistreatment, neglect or violence involving someone nearby, or have suspicions, please call the following numbers immediately: - in a case involving a child, the Direction de la protection de la jeunesse at 1-800-567-6810; - in a case of domestic violence, SOS violence conjugale at 1 800-363-9010; - in a case involving a senior, Ligne Aide Abus Aînés at 1 888 489-2287; - in any other case, the SPVG at 819-246-0222; or - in any case, 911 for an emergency or when immediate police assistance is required.

●	Despite the current situation, there are enough police officers on duty to respond to requests.

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Associated links

Support for Confined Vulnerable People

Director of youth protection

SOS violence conjugale

Elder Mistreatment Helpline

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