In Canada, assault is a crime.
It is assault for your partner to hit you, kick you, or physically hurt you in any way.
It is also a crime if your partner threatens to do these things to you.
If you fear for your safety or the safety of your children, call the police at 9-1-1 or VictimLINK BC at 1-800-563-0808; TTY: 604-875-0885. The line is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also text them at 604-836-6381 or email VictimLinkBC@bc211.ca.
VictimLINK BC provides service in all the major languages spoken in British Columbia. This service is private. They will not tell your sponsor or the government or anyone else about your call.
Staff at VictimLink BC will connect you to services and programs that can help you. These include victim services, transition houses, legal and counselling services. Staff at VictimLink BC can also give you information about the laws and the justice system.
If you have permanent residence status or conditional permanent resident status, you will not lose your status if you report the assault to police or leave a violent relationship.
You will not be deported. You may be able to get welfare (money from the government for basic needs such as housing, food and clothing).
Any assault on Canadian soil is a crime. You can get help from people who understand. Call VictimLINK BC at 1-800-563-0808.
There are organizations that help newcomers in your situation. They provide support so you can make your own decisions about what is best for you. Ask your settlement worker who to contact.
If you have a legal problem, but cannot afford a lawyer, the Legal Services Society (LSS) may be able to help you with legal information, advice and representation services. Call the LSS Call Centre at 604-408-2172 or 1-866-577-2525.
To find information and help in your own language, go to Clicklaw.
Read the fact sheet If Your Sponsor Abuses You on the Family Law in BC website.
To view videos about domestic violence in different languages, see Violence Against Women Videos on the People’s Law School website.
You may also find this website helpful (in English): Domestic Violence - It’s Never OK.