What criteria or conditions must be met before someone is admitted to a shelter for battered women?

Answer 1

I live in British Columbia, Canada, and volunteer for a Women's Abuse Center. If the woman is battered in any way "shoved, pushed until they fall down" or there is a constant threat in her environment with her partner that's a good reason to seek help from a Women's Abuse Center. If the person is physically harming you such as hitting, slapping, splitting your lip, broken bones, bad bruising from punching you, missing teeth and you are in fear for your own safety or your children's safety this too is highly considered. You don't need proof of a complaint to police. Women of abuse "have that look" and most of it know it when we see it. A counselor will talk to you and ask you questions. If you have children they will be looked after out in a play room. It's best to be honest with the counselor about what is going on in your personal life and don't be embarrassed. It happens to a lot of women and we hear it all the time. You need to find out from them what your legal rights are, and if you should be put into a "safe house" or "transition house" where you will be safe. Once there you will need to apply yourself and there will be chores to do, plus you MUST attend programs that they give to women as it teached the victim why they were abused, to give them strength not to go back to their abuser and also know the signs of a man you might meet that could be abusive. Many abused women will go back to their abuser or they will pick another abusive mate, only because they have low self esteem. Some Centers will also give legal counsel, go to court with you and also counselors will help you find work so you can become more independent. Good luck Marcy