It is paramount for every victim of violence, no matter their age or circumstance, to create a safety plan. A safety plan is an action strategy that is initiated should a victim need to escape an abusive partner. This page includes links to safety plans for both DV and TDV victims. Digital safety tips to prevent an abusive partner from knowing their online activity are also included, as well as links to locate shelters and legal resources in almost every jurisdiction in the United States.
Below are safety plans in a variety of formats: an interactive option from the National Domestic Violence Hotline and two printable safety plans. It is best for victims to create a safety plan with a trained advocate.
A victim's online use is often monitored by their abuser and can often trigger an abusive incident. The National Domestic Violence Hotline has developed these safety tips to stay as safe as possible when surfing the web and using technology.
The Children’s Passport Issuance Alert Program (CPIAP) is a government program that allows the Department of State to verify with parents and legal guardians that their children have the correct parental consent to apply for a passport and travel overseas.
Domestic violence shelters provide safe and confidential places to reside if a victim needs to leave an abusive partner. The link below from DomesticShelters.org is a tool to help victims locate a shelter in their jurisdiction by simply entering their city or zip code.
Victims can petition courts for an Order of Protection also known as a Restraining Order. If granted by a judge, these civil orders carry the authority of the court and can order an abusive partner to leave the home, to not contact the victim, mandate abuser intervention counseling, order temporary child custody, order the surrender of firearms and more. Violations of certain conditions granted in these court orders could subject an abuser to criminal penalties. The relief available and the terms of an order will depend on state laws. In some states, teens in abusive dating relationships are eligible to file for protection through a similar means. The first link below, from the WomensLaw.Org can help anyone find legal resources in their state. The second link includes general information about Protection Orders.The third link is specific to Protection Orders in Florida.
Every year too many individuals die as a result of intimate partner violence. Below is a tool used by law enforcement officers and advocates to determine if the abuse has the potential to become lethal. The assessments are based on victim reporting following an incident of abuse. Victims that score high on the lethality assessment protocol are immediately connected with a local service provider who will review their personal safety and resource options.
A comprehensive guide and sample teen dating safety plan from Love Is Respect is included here.
It is unhealthy for a dating partner to access your devices or monitor your location and online activity. Click the links from Love Is Respect to learn more about ensuring your digital safety.