5.2.3 Leaving a Relationship with Intimate Partner Violence

IMPORTANT: If the survivor is in immediate physical danger, they should go directly to the police or to a shelter if one is available in your community.

In some areas, going to the police may not be safe, so please use your best judgement.

Pack an escape bag: The survivor can pack and hide a bag that includes their important documents, legal or otherwise (e.g. government identification, legal documents, medical records, prescriptions, bills, etc.). If the survivor has children, their important documents should be included as well.

The bag should include money, keys, clothes, toiletries and other necessary items. If the bag is found, the survivor can claim it’s for earthquakes, fires or other natural disaster emergencies.

Plan where to go: The survivor should have a plan in place for where to go, whether it’s staying with trusted friends or family or a local domestic violence shelter.

Plan how to get there: The survivor should plan how to reach where they plan to go, including a variety of methods for getting there. If they have their own transport, they should plan to keep the petrol tank full. If they plan to take public transport, they should know the routes and departure times. This information may be available online or via an app, depending on your area.

Communicate the plan to others: The survivor can inform trusted friends or family of the situation and keep them updated of their plans. The survivor can direct them as to how to respond if the perpetrator should contact them.