Battered Women's Support Services

Counselling and Advocacy

Battered Women's Support Services provides free support services for any woman who has been abused in an intimate relationship as an adult. The abuse may be emotional, physical, sexual or financial. Our services are available over the phone or in person. All services are provided by trained counsellor/advocates.

For more information or to make an appointment, call 604-687-1867 (we accept collect calls) or email directservices@bwss.org.

Please note that we only answer calls and emails during office hours. If you need support or information outside of BWSS office hours, call WAVAW at 604-255-6344 or toll-free 1-877-392-7583 or Victims Link Helpline at 1-800-563-0808. See Links page for services outside the Lower Mainland.

Counselling

The woman-centred counselling program at BWSS provides:

• A safe, confidential place to talk about your experience and get information and/or support
• A skilled counsellor who will listen and validate without judging or labelling
• A chance to discuss questions, confusion or fears about your relationship
• Information and support to help you make your own decisions
• Healthy techniques for coping with overwhelming emotions
• Information and support to help you with parenting
• Referrals to other agencies or services as needed

Advocacy

Advocates at BWSS provide support for women who are dealing with systems. These systems include:

• The legal system
• Social assistance
• Child protection
• Unemployment or pension
• The medical system
• Immigration
• Other systems or agencies

Advocates can:

• Make calls or write letters on your behalf
• Help you fill out forms
• Accompany you to appointments

Training for Service Providers

BWSS offers workshops for service providers on counselling and advocacy skills and emerging issues related to providing support for women who have experienced violence. Contact the Counselling and Advocacy Program for more information or see the Education and Training page for more about BWSS workshops.

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