When Planning to Leave

The following information is from the Kansas Coalition Against Sexual and Domestic Violence:

This safety plan is for domestic violence victims of any age who may be abused by, or afraid of their spouse or partner, boyfriend or girlfriend, adult child or their family member. Safety planning helps develop tools in advance of potentially dangerous situations. Choose only the suggestions listed here that make sense for your set of circumstances.

Safety When Preparing to Leave

Leaving CAN be the most dangerous time!

Have a safe place to stay. Make sure it is a place that can protect you and your child/ren or grandchildren.

Call a domestic violence victim service program. Find out which services and shelters are available as options, if you need them. Keep their address and phone number close at hand at all times.

Find someone you trust. Leave money, extra keys, copies of important documents and clothing with them in advance, so you can leave quickly, if necessary.

Open a savings account. Put it in your name only, to increase your independence. Consider direct deposit from your paycheck or benefit check.

Contact your county aging unit. If you are 60 or older, learn about eligibility for public and private benefits and services, such as Social Security, pensions, housing, transportation and medical insurance.

Review your safety plan. Study and check your plans as often as possible in order to know the safest way to leave your abuser.