Bethesda House Presents on Intimate Partner Violence Epidemic

Laura Burch, Executive Director of Bethesda House, presented to the General Government Committee on May 6, 2024, regarding the Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) epidemic. She outlined the challenges faced by Bethesda House and provided recommendations for addressing the issue. Burch emphasized the need for integrating domestic violence prevention in schools and enhancing funding for public education materials across Ontario. She called for professional education and training for service providers, collaboration across agencies, and improvements in the criminal justice response to domestic violence offenders. Burch also highlighted the necessity for expanded shelter space and requested Council support for regional funding for overflow beds. Additionally, she proposed prioritizing investment in shelter infrastructure, addressing wage disparities among shelter staff, and allocating resources for community education initiatives. Burch invited Council to attend the IPV Epidemic Awareness Event and Walk scheduled for September 21, 2024. The Committee passed a resolution to receive her delegation and to engage with Bethesda House to review their recommendations in relation to Clarington's IDEA Plan.