advice...
Understanding why it's hard to leave...
It is hard to leave and many women stay in abusive relationships for
years for reasons ranging from love to terror:
You may still care about your partner and hope that they will change
You may feel ashamed about what has happened or believe that it’s your
own fault.
You may be scared that he will try to harm you or your family if you try
to leave.
You may be scared of being alone, leaving behind your community, friends
and family
|
|
You may be scared of the future... |
|
|
Where will you go? |
|
|
What will you do for money?
|
|
|
Will you have to hide for ever?
|
|
|
What will you tell the children? |
Getting free from abuse can be a lengthy process. Many women leave and
return a number of times before they finally make the break. Don't be
afraid to ask for help whenever you need it.
|
plan of action...
Whether or not you decide to leave your abuser, Women’s Aid can help
you plan how to leave in an emergency and to find a place of safety. If
you decide to move away by yourself, make sure it’s safe and that you
can’t be traced straightaway.
STEP 1
Recognise that you are in an abusive relationship. Unless you do this
nothing can change.
STEP 2
Seek emotional support and practical
help.
You can start this process by talking to a friend that you can trust.
You can call the Women's Aid National Domestic Violence help line or
contact your local Women's Aid Refuge.
STEP 3
Make a crisis safety plan to help keep you and your children safe.
Store emergency clothes, money, children’s special toys, important
documents, addresses and telephone numbers and duplicate car keys with
someone you trust.
Plan how to contact emergency help at any time. It may even help to
agree signals with a neighbour if you aren’t able to use the telephone.
STEP 4
Get advice about your legal rights, protection under the law, safe
housing and money.
|
