There are no excuses for violent behavior.
Violence will not just go away without help IT WILL GET WORSE. Every 12-15 seconds a woman in this country is abused by her partner. One-quarter of all murders are committed by family members.
If you leave home, plan for safety.
- Pack a bag in advance and leave it with a friend or a neighbor. Remember extra clothes for you and your children.
- Hide an extra set of car and house keys outside the house so you can leave quickly.
- Keep a list of emergency telephone numbers with you.
- Gather together important papers such as birth certificates, deed or lease to your residence, checkbook, extra checks, credit cards, medicine for you and your children, and any court orders or legal papers.
- Set aside any extra money you can to save, or open a bank account in your name.
- Think about where you can go, or you can ask the court to order the abuser to leave your home.
What to do if you’re sexually assaulted?
- Get yourself to a safe place and contact someone you trust.
- Preserve evidence.
- Avoid showering, washing your hands or changing your clothes.
- Seek Medical Attention
- Q: If I go to the hospital do I have to report it to the police?
- A: No, if you are over 18 you can request an anonymous sexual assault kit to be performed. You have time to decide if you want to press charges.
- Seek Counselling & Support Services
- Roberta’s Place provides sexual assault support & counseling
- Healing after an assault can be difficult. However, there are numerous support services.