For many women leaving a relationship does not mean the end to the violence and abuse. The violence may escalate and can take on different forms.
It is important to understand that whilst you can take steps to avoid violence, you cannot stop the violence. The only person who can do that is the person who is violent.
If you have decided to leave or have already done so, it is important that you have a safety plan to assist you and your children to be and stay safe.
If you have left it is always important to review your safety plan and ensure that it is still relevant to you and your circumstances.
For your safety plan to work it is vital you don’t let your partner see the plan, but it is a good idea to talk about it with someone you trust that is close to you.
Your partner may have a sense that something has changed, or may be about to change. It is important that you attempt to keep to your usual routines and activities.
Once you have made the decision to leave, contact Beryl Women Inc on 02 6230 6900. We can discuss short-term and long-term accommodation options available for women who experience domestic and family violence in the ACT.
For emergency accommodation because of domestic and family violence, contact the Domestic Violence Crisis Service on 02 6280 0900 (24hr) to discuss your options.
For more in-depth safety planning, download the “Beryl Awareness & Safety Booklet” PDF, and read from page 22 onwards:
Beryl Awareness & Safety Booklet (Latest Edition: September 2021)
