Guide aims to help Nunavut women deal with domestic violence

The YWCA chapter in Nunavut is hoping a new handbook will help women dealing with domestic violence learn how to seek legal aid and cope with thedifficulties.

The YWCA/AggvikSociety, which runs the women's shelter in Apex and thewomen'shomeless shelter in Iqaluit,revealed the newly published manualFriday morning in the city.

It's meant to give tips for women in Nunavut, who live in a territory with the highest rates of domestic violence in the country.

"Even before the women reach the shelter, how can we take more preventative measures as a community so this violence happens less often?" said Ida Atagoyuk, an elder who was consulted for the handbook. "This has been a major topic during our discussions."

A report released by NunavutTunngavikInc. (NTI) last week,says Nunavut's crime rate has more than doubled between 1999 and 2012, while Canada'snational rate has declined.

The report also says 40 percent of Inuit adults living in Nunavut have experienced severe sexual abuse as children. Thatincludes 1 in 2 Inuit women.

• Nunavut justice system 'failing children and youth': Inuit group

The YWCA/Aggvik Societysays its new manualwill help women find ways to cope and get legal aid.

"This manual provides basic information in the area of custody and access to matrimonial propertyso shelter workers and community support people can know where they are, and can then support women that are facing this system," saidAline Nizigama, who'swith YMCA Canada.

This afternoon, the YWCA/Aggvik Society is holding a celebration to mark the launch of the handbook. It'shosting a community feast and concert at InukshukHighSchool.