Welland city council voting to ask the provincial government for more free councilling services due to Ontario registry
Another step taken by the City of Welland to help people manage when a registered sex offender is released into a community.
Councillor Sharmila Setaram's idea was supported by her colleagues in asking the province provide more free councilling, and mental health supports.
She says reactions are often rooted in fear, stress and uncertainty. "What we are seeing increasingly is added pressure from how loudly this issue is discussed online, in the media, and then by certain groups who have taken to the streets, sometimes the presence of a large number of people, and shouting, can be triggering for survivors and families."
She says the provincial government already has resources, but this will extend or expand the use of those.
"This would help to navigate stress and anxiety, and would help families to have calm, caring and age appropriate conversations with their children. Something many people struggle with when they're overwhelmed and afraid, and we have limited resources."
She says this can help parents talk to children without being fearful.

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