Prepare to Leave an Abusive Relationship
Once you have decided to leave an abusive relationship, you can take steps to prepare. An Esperanza Advocate can help you make a SAFETY PLAN: Call our 24/7 Crisis Hotline: 505-473-5200 or 800-473-5220.
LEAVING AN ABUSIVE RELATIONSHIP CAN BE DANGEROUS. If you are able to, begin gathering the following items and store them in a secret place. It is okay if you cannot gather these items, the lives and safety of you and your children are the most important.
- A written list of important phone numbers—don’t count on having your cell phone handy
- Identification (e.g., driver’s license, school ID, military ID, immigration documents, passport, SSN cards)
- Cell Phone
- Cell phone charger
- Medication (e.g., asthma inhaler, insulin, Epi-Pen)
- Medical records (vaccination records, insurance cards, etc.)
- Birth certificates for you and your children
- Cash
- ATM card, credit cards
- Bank statements or other important financial records
- House key
- Car key
- A change of clothes
- Comfort items (e.g., favorite stuffed animal or photograph)
- Baby supplies (formula, diaper, wipes, change of clothes)
- Childs school records.
- Copy of Protection/Restraining Order
- Animals, pet food, vaccination records
[put this information under the two large buttons requested above]
Remember that your abuser might monitor your cell phone and computer. Think about using a safer computer at a friend’s house or the public library and try to get a prepaid cell phone to use in emergencies. Also ensure your location services setting is “OFF” in all phones and/or tablets/computers you plan to leave with. The location services can usually be found in the “privacy” section of your settings application.