Peer Support Groups Designed for Survivors by Survivors

GBV refers to harmful acts directed at someone based on their gender, gender identity, or perceived gender. It includes a wide range of abuses such as domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and more. GBV is rooted in power imbalances and often goes hand-in-hand with control, shame, and fear.

Anyone can experience GBV, but women, girls, trans, non-binary, and gender-diverse individuals are disproportionately affected. Survivors can be of any age, background, or identity.

Sexual assault is any unwanted sexual contact, including touching, groping, or penetration, without consent. It’s about power and control—not sex or attraction.

Yes. Consent must be freely given every time. Being in a relationship or knowing someone does not mean they have the right to your body.

No. Many survivors freeze or shut down as a trauma response. Lack of resistance does not equal consent.

Domestic violence is a pattern of behaviour used by one person to gain power and control over another in a relationship. It can be physical, emotional, psychological, financial, or sexual.

Yes. Emotional and psychological abuse can deeply impact a survivor’s self-worth, sense of safety, and mental health.

Leaving is not always safe or possible. Survivors may face financial barriers, threats, isolation, lack of support, or fear of losing their children. Every situation is different.

Human trafficking is the exploitation of people through force, fraud, or coercion for purposes such as sex work or forced labour. It is a form of modern slavery.

Trafficking can happen in cities, suburbs, and rural communities. Most survivors in Canada are trafficked by someone they know—like a romantic partner or family member—not a stranger.

Traffickers use manipulation, threats, violence, and emotional abuse to isolate and trap victims. They may also control documents, finances, or access to basic needs.

Trust your instincts. You can reach out to SAFE or a local support organization. You don’t need to report to police to access support or to be believed.

No. You have the right to choose what’s best for you. SAFE supports survivors whether or not they report to police.

Yes. Healing has no timeline. It’s never too late to access support.

Listen without judgment. Let them share at their own pace. Avoid pressuring them to leave or report. Remind them that what’s happening is not their fault and that support is available when they’re ready. Respect their choices and offer to help find resources if they want them.

You can say things like:

• “I believe you.”

• “You didn’t deserve this.”

• “You’re not alone—there’s help available.”

Most importantly, listen. Don’t try to “fix” it. Just being there can make a big difference.

They may seem withdrawn, anxious, or fearful. You might notice unexplained injuries, frequent absences, sudden changes in behaviour, or that their partner is controlling or always monitoring them. Trust your gut—if something feels off, it’s okay to gently check in.

If something doesn’t feel right, it’s valid to talk about it. You don’t need to have all the answers or a label for your experience to reach out. You deserve support just for feeling unsafe or unsure.

That fear is valid. You’re not alone in feeling that way. You can reach out in small steps—like texting or messaging a support organization. You can also talk to someone you trust. No one should pressure you to move faster than you're ready.

SAFE offers peer support, referrals, workshops, and resources led by survivors. You don’t need to report to access our help. We’re here to walk with you—whether you’re just starting to ask questions or ready to take the next step.

Unfortunately, not at this time. The process to obtain charity status is currently underway, so we will be able to provide donation receipts for tax deduction purposes once that occurs. 

Your donation will help us continue our mission of community engagement through peer support, community referrals, outreach programs and workshops, raising awareness through educational public speaking, consultation with local organizations and governments, active participation in community events, and monitoring community needs all done with the aim to support those in crisis and those who are recovering from crisis. Thank you again for your generosity and allyship. 

SAFE’S most important next step is to operationalize our primary program, “Recovery & Beyond”. This program is designed by survivors for survivors, meant to help individuals in crisis or recently out of crisis to identify abusive behaviours, explore emotions, and plan towards long-term healing. Donations in the foreseeable future will be used for this purpose.