Safety Planning
Safety planning is a victim’s organized effort to minimize danger and increase her safety during all phases of an abusive relationship. Safety plans can address physical, emotional, financial and legal needs. Whether a victim is staying, leaving, has already left the abusive relationship, or has left and returned, it’s important to have a plan in case of further abuse.
Safety plans should be individualized and created with the help of trained domestic violence professionals. For assistance, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline, your state local domestic violence coalition, or another such program in your area
While every safety plan is individualized, some common key elements of a safety plan include:
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a trusted confidant -friend, family member, rabbi, therapist or other abuse survivor- who will believe a victim’s story and listen without passing judgment
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areas in the house to avoid should the abuser become physically violent
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an escape route, planned and practiced (a good way to leave is to follow everyday routines that include leaving the house, and then proceed to a designated safe place), and a safe place to stay like a battered women’s shelter or a safe house for abused women
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a code word to use with children, friends and neighbors when the victim needs the police
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copies of important documents- like banking information, insurance policies, birth certificates, passports or immigration papers medical records and prescriptions and school records- hidden in a safe and accessible place
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other essentials stashed away, such as clothing, a spare set of house and car keys, a prepaid cell phone and important phone numbers
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money set aside that can be accessed quickly in an emergency
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copies of a protective order
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copies of other court documents regarding custody and visitation
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Family members, friends and co-workers of domestic violence victims who feel they may be in danger might also want to develop safety plans. .
See JWI's Resource Directory for local assistance with safety planning.
Information contained on this website should not be construed as legal advice. Read full disclaimer.