Safety Planning

The Canadian Victims Bill of Rights is a set of principals that guides how victims of crime should be treated at different stages of the criminal justice process.

a victim, according to this act , is defined as an individual who suffered physical or emotional harm, property damage or economic loss as the result of crime:

The Right to Information

The Right to Participation

The Rights to Protection

The Right to Restitution

For more information on the Canadian Victims Bill of Rights you can search “Victims of Crime “ at www.canada.ca

Questions to ask yourself:

Does the abuser change just before becoming violent?

A differen look in the eyes?

Posture changes (fists clenched, etc.)?

Voice changes?

Face changes expression or colour?

Threatens verbally or non-verbally before striking you?

What are other indications that your abuser may hurt you?

** Take note of the changes and make a plan to keep yourself safe **

Remember that individuals are often most at risk for violence immediately before and immediately after they leave an abusive relationship. it is very important to plan for your safety if you are considering leaving an abusive relationship.

You do not have control over your partners violence, but you canapé out action steps to increase your safety and prepare in advance

Take a photocopy of these items/ store them in a safe place away from the originals:

-Personal identification for all family members (birth certificates, drivers license, health card, passport, immigration papers, etc.)

School and vaccination records

Medications, prescriptions and medical records for all family members

Drivers licence and registration

Work permits

Welfare identification

Divorce papers, custody documentation, court orders, restraining order, marriage certificate, tax returns

Lease/rental agreement, house deed, mortgage payment book

Bank books/bank statements, credit cards, ATM cards and investment statements

Insurance papers (life, home, car)

Social insurance number

Address /telephone book, any emergency numbers

Picture of ex-partner/ abuser and children

Try and keep your wallet and/or bag/ purse handy to have the following:

Keys for your house , car, office, mailbox, garage, etc.

Emergency cash

Photographs of abuser

Copies of court orders

Driver’s license, registration, insurance

Address/telephone book, emergency numbers

Keep the following things set aside in an easily accessible place so that you can grab them quickly:

Emergency suitcase with immediate needs

Jewelry

Children’s favourite toys and blankets

Items of special sentimental values