Exploring Safety, Resources,
and Options Together

Preparing to leave an abusive relationship is often the most dangerous time for a survivor and their family. In order to leave safely, it is crucial for survivor to create a detailed plan for every stage of the transition. See the “Safety Check List” in the sidebar on the left. This is a printable document that provides basic guidelines for safety planning in a domestic violence situation.

Barriers to Leaving

Many people do not understand why a survivor stays in an abusive relationship and might ask, “Why don’t you just leave?” Leaving is often dangerous, and factors such as homelessness, housing, child custody, finances, medical needs, and threats of more violence complicate the process. (See “50 Reasons for Not Leaving” in the sidebar on the left.) Above all, the emotional toll it takes on a survivor cannot be overstated. Circle is here to help develop a safety plan.