Violence Against Women (VAW)

Violence against women (VAW) is a serious and pervasive problem that crosses every culture, social boundary, and affects every community.

VAW is one of the OPS's top priorities.

You can review OPS quarterly Sexual Offence Reports here

Statistics Canada reports that 1 in 3 Canadian women have experienced sexual assault or psychological, emotional or physical abuse from males.  Think about the women and girls who live daily with the threat of violence, and those who have died as a result of deliberate acts of gender-based violence.

Ottawa Police continues to engage community partners to help promote and raise awareness regarding violence against women but we all have a role to play in ending the violence. 

Our officers respond and investigate calls related to this issue on a regular basis. To help work towards a broader solution, the role of the OPS is evolving to be more than simply arresting those who break the law and investigating crimes. Our strategies include enforcement and education, especially to young men and boys, about ending violence against women, as well as challenging everyone to speak out and think about their own beliefs, language, and actions on this issue.

Current and ongoing projects:

  • Prevention strategies have been developed in consultation and cooperation with the community and our partners.
  • The Ottawa Police is conducting research on best practices in response to VAW, how resources are allocated to address it, and best to remove barriers for survivors to report violence and sexual assault. 
  • Remembering Women in History: The flags at all Ottawa Police and City of Ottawa sites always fly at half mast on December 6 to commemorate the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women.
  • Women Abuse Prevention and Awareness: We are proud to participate in various community initiatives during the year such as the White Ribbon Campaign, Shine the Light Campaign, Walk a Mile in Her Shoes, The Clothesline Project, Safety for Women Workshops, Don't Be That Guy campaign, #ManifestChange, and #EndVAW, throughout the year to highlight the importance of VAW awareness and prevention. 
  • Other Information: Please also see our online Survivor Guide, Process Map, and resources from Sexual Assault, Partner Assault (including stats) and information on Safety for Women.

We all have a responsibility to end violence against women. If you see it, report it. Remember, you can always ask to speak to someone discretely if you want to report an incident of a sensitive, personal nature. 

Dear Survivor of Violence Against Women,

We recognize that this is a very difficult time for you. It is our duty to assist and support survivors of violence against women in a sensitive manner. If you cannot find the information you are looking for here, please do not hesitate to contact us using any of the contact methods below.

Our Resources on Sexual Assault:

Our Resources on Partner Assault and Abuse:

Victim Resources:

Other Information about VAW

Email: Info@ottawapolice.ca