Training + education = healthy province + less death

Nova Scotia has been at the forefront of preventative healthcare in Canada since 2002 when the Office of Health Promotion was established. The main goal of this government body was to educate individuals on adopting healthier lifestyles to reduce chronic illness and premature deaths. Over the years, the department has evolved and changed names but its mission remains the same – to collaborate with various sectors to strengthen health promotion initiatives and create environments that support improved health.

The equation for public health is simple: education + training = less death. The government continues to invest millions of dollars in health promotion and wellness programs each year to prevent negative health outcomes. However, one glaring issue that remains unaddressed is the gender-based violence epidemic that is prevalent in every corner of the province.

Dee Dooley, a sexual violence advisor at Saint Mary’s University, emphasizes the need for a shift in resources towards prevention and education rather than just responding to incidents of gender-based violence. She advocates for comprehensive training for frontline workers, especially police, who often lack the necessary skills to interact with victims using trauma-informed care.

Research shows that a validating and supportive response to victims of gender-based violence can significantly impact their healing process. Therefore, investing in proper training and education for all individuals involved in responding to these incidents is crucial. This includes frontline workers, government officials, and community members.

Dooley suggests a three-pronged approach to tackling gender-based violence: individual response training, systemic response through legislative reform, and community involvement. While legal reforms and increased training for professionals are important, educating the general public on supporting victims and survivors is equally vital.

Despite the known benefits of prevention and education, the issue of gender-based violence has not been a focal point in the current provincial election. It is imperative for government officials, like Premier Tim Houston, to prioritize this life-or-death issue and take action to address it. By acknowledging the problem and investing in prevention strategies, we can create a safer and healthier province for all residents.