When someone leaves an abusive relationship it creates a crisis point for the person causing the harm. It is the one time when they have no control and are likely to be unpredictable and possibly violent, even if they have never shown violence towards you before. This means that the point of leaving can be a very dangerous time.
Planning to leave over a period of time will put you in a safer position as you can make your exit at a time that suits you, preferably when the person abusing you is not at home. You will know your abuser better than anyone and will be able to plan around their movements.
To help you plan how to leave safely support services can give information, advice and support.
Once you have made the decision to leave, it may not be possible for you to go back, or you will not want to go back, so must choose very carefully what to take with you.
If you do have to leave in a hurry, it will help if you have prepared a bag which you can leave hidden somewhere safe or with someone you trust.
Confide in someone you trust (friend, relative or perhaps a school teacher or health professional). They can support you and help with some planning or help put you in touch with support services.
Safer Cornwall have produced a series of short videos highlighting some of the things you can do to prepare for leaving, keeping safe and getting help which reflect the information provided on these pages. See above for local support services.
It is always recommended that anyone seeking support with safety planning should contact a specialist service to discuss their own specific and unique circumstances.
Please note that the information provided in this section is general guidance only.
If you think you are in immediate danger, always 'phone the police on 999.
