How Can You Help?

What if someone you know is being abused? They need the abuse to stop. They need information and support to make their own decisions. Admitting to and breaking free from abuse can be very hard, even dangerous. No one should have to struggle with it alone. If you think someone you know is being abused, let them know you care and are ready to listen. Suggest they get help from someone they trust--a doctor, nurse, counselor, the police. Learn everything you can about the problem so you can give them as much information as possible .Set up a secret code word that she (he) knows to use if she's in trouble so that you can act quickly and call the police

 Erase your tracks

Don't leave online traces
Internet browsers store a history of searches and visited sites. If you are worried about some one knowing that you visited this Web site use a friend's or library computer and make sure you have a safety plan. If you want to try removing the traces yourself, the links below provide the necessary instructions. Just remember: by doing so, all of the history in your browser address window will be cleared.
Cover your Web Tracks

 Need Help?

If you believe you cannot leave an abusive partner without retaliation, you need legal assistance, a safety plan (what items to have prepared to take with you) and a place to go (a shelter or other secret location). Call a hotline (see numbers below) to discuss options. If you suspect a family member, friend or co-worker is suffering from spousal or partner abuse, provide information and support. You may have to be patient and non-judgmental. Remember that leaving is a very difficult decision for many women, even when their lives are in danger. Call a hotline for suggestions on helping.

1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or
1-800-787-3224 (TTY).

 Make a safety Plan

• An extra set of keys for the apartment or house and vehicle
• Small bills and change for taxis and telephone call
• Identification papers - passport, social insurance card, birth certificates, immigration papers, citizenship card,
• Driver's licence and registration
• Health cards and children's immunization records for self and  children
• Divorce and custody papers
• Restraining orders, peace bonds, any other court orders
• Bank books, check book, credit cards, mortgage or loan papers
• Lease/rental agreement, property deed, business or partnership agreements, rent or mortgage payment receipts
• Address book
• Photograph of my (ex) partner to help identify him/her
• A list of other items I can pick up later

 Does This Sound Familiar?

"It's my fault."

"It just happened this one time�?I pushed him too far."

"If I just show him I love him and don't make him angry, this will stop."

"He is so sweet to me afterwards�?I know he didn't mean it."

"He's just concerned about me�?that's why he checks up on me so much."

"I can't manage money very well anyway�?it's better if he handles it."