Addiction and Mental Health - Domestic Abuse Response Team

Alberta Health Services - Provincial Health Services


Description
Specialized support to individuals who are experiencing domestic violence.

Domestic violence can take many forms, including verbal, physical, sexual, psycological, emotional, spiritual, and the violation of rights which can happen in any relationship based on intamcay, dependency, or trust. The Domestic Abuse Response Team (DART) offers specialized support to patients of all genders who are experiencing any form of domestic violence. Individuals do not have to be in a crisis to access the DART response, and can request a referral at select emergency departments, urgent care centres, and maternity units. Participation is voluntary and at no cost to the patient.

Although, as of November 30th, 2023, the DART project has sunset, domestic violence services are still being provided through localized shelter response, while individuals are present within the Alberta Health Services (AHS) or Covenant Health facility. Referrals of patients to the respective shelters remain confidential, nonjudgemental, and choice-based. A referral is initated through the patient or by an AHS or Covenant Health employee. A shelter responder will connect with the individual over the phone to conduct further assessment and provide the following services based on their needs.

  • emotional support
  • information and education about domestic violence
  • assistance with safety planning
  • information about and referrals to local supports, including financial assistance, counselling, food bank, etc.
  • assistance with contacting local law enforcement and / or Children's Services
  • access to safe accommodations, including emergency shelter or hotel

This service is provided by AHS or Covenant Health and external shelter service providers.


Affiliation: Rowan House Society, YWCA Banff, Odyssey House, Medicine Hat Women's Shelter Society, Jessica Martel Memorial Foundation
Eligibility
Yes, This service targets:
  • Albertans who disclose concerns of domestic violence or feeling unsafe
  • anyone 16 years of age and older, any gender (Child and Family Services involvement for patients under the age of 16)
  • clients must be alert, oriented and medically cleared in-person at nearest AHS facility
  • clients must be able to provide informed consent
Application Process
Service Access: Walk-in / Drop In Service, Healthcare providers should consult the Alberta Referral Directory for service referral information. In-person medical clearance at facility required. Screening questions for domestic violence will also be completed. Individuals may contact the Mental Health Helpline for DART program information.
Referral Process: N/A


Waiting Period: No,
Toll Free
1-877-303-2642 (Mental Health Helpline)
Languages
Interpreter/Translation services
Fees
Fee: No


Fee Reduction: N/A
Membership Fee: N/A
Accessibility
Wheelchair access: Yes -
Other disabled access: Yes - Ambulance Bay
Topic(s)
Agency Information
View Agency Profile
Last Verified On
February 27, 2024
Address
5430 47 Avenue
Lacombe, AB, T4L 1G8

This facility provides a range of healthcare services including a 24/7 emergency department.


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Hours of Operation
24/7 -

Open statutory holidays.