News New Research Will Investigate Economic Abuse in Alberta New Research Will Investigate Economic Abuse in Alberta FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE New Research Will Investigate Economic Abuse in Alberta The Alberta Council of Women’s Shelters invites all Albertans to participate in province-wide online survey August 19, 2026 – Edmonton, AB — Researchers at the Alberta Council of Women’s Shelters (ACWS) have launched a public online survey to help Albertans better understand the realities of economic abuse in Alberta. Led by ACWS Manager of Research and Evaluation Dr. Miranda Pilipchuk, the survey invites all Albertans to participate, regardless of whether they are familiar with or have experienced economic abuse. The responses will help researchers understand what Albertans know about this often-hidden form of abuse, how it affects survivors, and where greater awareness and support are needed. “Economic abuse is one of the most common forms of abuse, but most people don’t know enough about it to recognize it when it happens,” said Pilipchuk. “This survey is an innovative new approach that will allow Albertans to learn more about what economic abuse is and what it can look like, as well as to reflect on whether they have experienced economic abuse themselves.” Economic abuse occurs when someone limits another person’s access to money, exploits their resources, denies them control over their own income, or misuses economic or legal systems against them—for example, through frivolous lawsuits. It can have devastating long-term consequences for the survivor, including debt, bad credit, lost income, and career damage. Although common in abusive relationships between intimate partners, economic abuse can take place in other types of relationships as well, including through parents, adult children, friends, teachers, coaches, religious leaders, or anyone else in a position of trust with the survivor. “Economic abuse can trap survivors in unsafe situations and create barriers that continue long after they leave,” said Cat Champagne, Executive Director of ACWS. “The results of this survey will help us build more effective supports to help survivors regain financial security, independence, and choice.” Participants can take the survey at acws.ca/economic-abuse until it closes on September 25. Economic Abuse: Myth vs. Fact Myth: Economic abuse only happens to irresponsible people. Fact: It can happen to anyone, no matter how careful or responsible they are. Myth: It isn’t as serious as other kinds of abuse. Fact: Economic abuse can have devastating, lifelong consequences that ripple into every area of a survivor’s life. Myth: It wouldn’t happen to someone like me. Fact: Economic abuse happens to people of all backgrounds, experiences, and income levels. -30- Media Enquiries: Jenny Adams 780-707-9101 jenny@theadamsagency.ca
