New Police Tool Supports Victims

Police in Nova Scotia now have a new resource to help them deal with violence between spouses or intimate partners.

The police pocket guide, which was created by the Department of Justice, was shared with domestic violence educators from across Nova Scotia today, June 28, at a conference in Truro.

The guide, with 135 pages of tips, resources and contacts, was handed out at a training session sponsored by the Justice Learning Centre. The centre is a partnership between the Department of Justice and the Nova Scotia Community College.

"This guide is another step forward in the great work being done to help families cope with a serious social problem," said Justice Minister Michael Baker. "Organizations across Nova Scotia are working together to make sure agencies respond quickly and appropriately to urgent situations."

Lyn Barrett, co-chair of the Transition House Association of Nova Scotia, also recognizes the importance of the new police tool. "Member organizations of the Transition House Association of Nova Scotia understand that this guide will support the work we do to address intimate partner violence. This resource will further increase effective collaboration and understanding among police, the department and our member organizations."

"This new guide will be an invaluable tool for our members across the province," said assistant commissioner Ian Atkins, commanding officer for the RCMP in Nova Scotia. "Domestic violence has a devastating effect on families and the whole community. This guide will better equip our officers to investigate this serious issue."

The guide includes easy-to-find information on assessing risks, applying for an emergency protection order, laying a charge, protecting children in need, dealing with firearms, following up with victims, communicating with other responders and guidelines for law enforcement.