Leaving an abusive relationship is one of the most challenging decisions a person can make. If you are in a domestic violence situation, preparing to go can be overwhelming and even dangerous. However, creating a safety plan and preparing in advance can help protect you and your loved ones.
We have a step-by-step guide here.
Record evidence of abuse you have experienced. This can include pictures of injuries, screenshots of threatening messages, or detailed accounts of incidents.
Try to set money aside in a safe place or ask a trusted friend or family member to hold money for you.
If needed, pursue job skills and education that can help with establishing independence after you leave.
This could be an emergency shelter or a supportive friend or family's home.
Plan with your children to determine safe spaces they can go during an emergency crisis situation.
Call ahead to shelters to be informed of their policies and procedures.
Talk to an EPEC advocate to help develop a safety plan and connect you with resources that can help you leave.
If you think you are in an abusive relationship, need emergency shelter because of your violent partner or have been sexually assaulted, you can call EPEC 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Our hotline is completely confidential. You do not have to give your name to the operator if you don’t want to.