An organization dedicated to guiding survivors of domestic abuse through the legal system says intimate partner violence can present itself in various ways.

Recent reports from Statistics Canada indicate rates of intimate partner violence in this province are above the national average. Kevin O’Shea, Manager of the Journey Project, says that’s concerning as those stats only take in what’s reported to police.

Since 2018, the Journey Project has provided access to free legal advice to over 800 victims of intimate partner violence.

He says what counts as domestic violence includes more than just physical or sexual abuse.

He says stalking, frequent communication, any form of emotional and psychological trauma, and a number of other things outlined in the provincial Family Violence Protection Act are all considered intimate partner violence.

Anyone looking for support from the Journey Project can contact them by phone at 1-833-722-2805 or by emailing support@journeyprojectnl.com.

Some legal advice is also available on their website.