staying safe: after you leave a violent relationship
overview
after you leave a violent relationship, you may have to take extra steps to stay safe. for example, if you printed out this information, it's safer to keep it in the hands of a trusted friend than at home.
here are some tips that may increase your safety. keep in mind that this information is not official legal advice.
- get help from free resources.
- visit https://crcvc.ca/resources/resource-directory for resources on getting help in your area.
- call your provincial health line (811 in most provinces and territories) or check your local phone book.
- your local shelter for domestic abuse victims can help answer your questions. they also can help you deal with legal issues and find temporary housing.
- think about getting a protection order (sometimes called a restraining order).
- talk to the police or a hotline or shelter advocate about whether this might be a good idea for you.
- if you get a protection order, always keep a copy with you. give copies of it and a photo of your partner to your children's school, people who help care for or transport your children, and your workplace. (front desk or security employees can use a photo and protection order to prevent your partner from entering.)
- let others know.
- tell people who help care for or transport your children.
- tell your boss, trusted friends, and neighbours.
- get a new phone number or a new phone.
- consider a pay-as-you-go phone.
- turn off gps.
- use the prerecorded voicemail message. or have a friend record it. don't include your name or number.
- don't answer calls from unknown, blocked, or private numbers.
- watch what you do online.
- change passwords to email and social media accounts. always log off when you're done.
- turn off location access.
- don't post your location on social media. ask friends not to tag you.
- change your address to a post office (p.o.) box.
- make sure you can access your money.
- you might open a new bank account (using a p.o. box or the address of a trusted contact).
- or you might have friends or family hold money for you.
- change your emergency contacts at work and at your children's school.
- change any upcoming appointments your partner knows about (like a doctor's appointment).
- change your routine.
- vary where you shop, eat, and hang out.
- park in different places.
- take new routes to work and school.
- make your home safer.
- change the locks (if you're staying in your same home).
- call the police if your abusive partner shows up.
- increase security around your home and property. your local police can give you suggestions.
credits
current as of: june 24, 2023
author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
current as of: june 24, 2023
author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.