The PAR program is a Domestic Violence Court initiative.  Referrals to the program are received through the criminal court system, Probation and Parole.  The PAR program delivers a specialized community-based group education/counselling to clients who have been mandated by the court to attend the program in response to a criminal charge involving domestic violence.  The program is funded by the Ministry of the Attorney General’s Ontario Victim Services.

Clients attend 12 weekly group sessions which are 120 minutes in duration.

Groups are co-facilitated by an experienced team of facilitators.

Groups are offered in the evening on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and on Saturday mornings and afternoons

The PAR program offers individuals who have used violence in their intimate relationships the opportunity to explore their beliefs towards intimate relationships and enhance the skills required for safe and supportive relationships.  The PAR program aims to enhance victim safety and hold offenders accountable for their behaviour.

We offer multicultural PAR groups that are facilitated in English.  Participants have the opportunity to obtain a language interpreter at no additional cost if needed.

Clients will need to attend an intake session to assess for suitability and eligibility.  During the intake appointment we will collect information about the clients situation and assess any need for additional supports and referrals.  Clients will also be provided with details about their sessions and start date. Clients must complete an intake and assessment appointment prior to be being accepted into the program.

The Partner Contact Program is part of the Partner Assault Response (PAR) program.  When an individual begins the PAR program a PAR team member will contact the current or past partner of the PAR participant to offer support, information and referrals to community services.  Partner contact can help clients:

Understand the dynamics of abuse

Develop a safety plan

Find counselling services within and/or outside our agency

Understand risk factors in their relationship