Make yourself as safe as you possible

Many people experiencing domestic violence say they don’t want to leave their home or their relationship, they just want the violence to stop. For others a lack of finances, wanting to maintain access to children or limited outside support may mean they feel they can’t leave. If you are staying in the relationship try to make yourself as safe as you can.

Think about and identify some of the ways you have coped until now and work out how you might use those strategies in the future. You understand your situation better than anyone else so use that knowledge to help minimise the risks to yourself.

Find out about your options, and who can help you, even if you don’t want to use them yet. For example, finding out how to apply for an AVO before you actually need one means that you will be better prepared if it becomes necessary.Knowing what you can do and how to do it can help you to feel more in control of your situation and your safety.

If you do decide to stay in the house it’s important to remember that once violence begins it is likely to get worse over time.

Some people develop a Crisis Plan to protect themselves (and their children). Suggestions on what your Crisis Plan might include can be found at Develop a Crisis Plan for yourself.