WHAT IS THIS SERVICE?
Guelph-Wellington Women in Crisis supports individuals experiencing domestic and sexual violence, human trafficking or other forms of gender based violence for Guelph and Wellington County. G-W WIC’s Web Chat/Text Support is a free, anonymous, and confidential chat for survivors and the people who support them. You can expect to connect with a trained staff or volunteer.
WHEN IS THE SERVICE AVAILABLE?
The hours of operation will be listed on our website and social media. We expect them to change over time. If you need immediate support when the service is not available, you can call G-W WIC’s 24-Hour Crisis Line at 519-836-5710 or 1-800-265-7233 and speak to a trained staff or volunteer.
IS THIS SERVICE FOR ME?
We support people age 16 and over who are or have experienced domestic and/or sexual violence or human trafficking at any point in their lives. We also assist people who are supporting survivors – family, friends and professional supports. Additionally, referrals can be made for other supports.
If you are younger than 16, you can connect with the Kids Help Phone.
PRANK OR HARASSING CHATS
We do not tolerate prank or harassing chats. Any threatening and/or violent chat, including sexually abusive statements, racism, or any kind of discrimination, violates our volunteer and staff rights and safety. Chats will be ended immediately.
WILL MY INFORMATION BE SHARED?
We maintain strict confidentiality. However, if there are immediate concerns for your safety, or if you are threatening harm to others, G-W WIC has the duty to contact emergency services. If a child under 16 years of age are at risk of harm, we have a duty to report.
HOW SECURE IS THIS SERVICE?
Internet transmission is 100% secure. On our end, the conversation is encrypted (encoded) securely, and is confidential. We do not save the scripts of our conversations, store IP addresses, or use cookies.
Our web-based chat features end-to-end encryption. If your browser or device does not support encryption on your end, a message will pop up asking you if you would like to continue. For some suggestions about safety on an online chat you can check out G-W WIC’S HIDE YOUR TRACKS You can use the Quick Hide tool that appears at the bottom left of every page for an immediate cover-up.
However, using SMS (text by phone) is less secure because every text message is processed by your phone company. It’s also important to delete the conversation when it ends.
PROBLEMS? COMPLAINTS?
For questions or complaints about this service, you can contact the Manager at 519-836-1110 ext. 235, adminrec@gwwomenincrisis.org.