SupportLink is a joint initiative of the Ontario Government, Rogers AT&T Wireless and Ericsson Canada. The program provides victims at risk from domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking/criminal harassment with intensive and comprehensive personal safety planning, as well as free airtime and wireless phones, pre-programmed to dial 911 in the event of a personal safety emergency.

SupportLink is available to all victims residing in both Peterborough and Northumberland counties.

There are three significant components to the program. A personal safety plan developed by/for the client with the assistance of the program coordinator, a cell phone that is pre-programmed to dial 911 and follow-up contact to provide on-going support for the client and for updating the safety plan.

Safety planning is essentially a close look at the full environment in which a victim lives, works and socializes.

Such a plan cannot guarantee personal safety, but it can certainly improve the living situation for clients at risk.

Positive steps to reduce risk and raise informed self-confidence can make a very real difference to the mobility and comfort of clients in their homes, places of work and neighbourhoods.