It’s Your Right To Be Safe

Women and their children have a right to live in a place which is safe and free from fear.

If women are afraid for themselves or their children or if they are being abused in any way, help is available and they have the right to ask for it.

There are services specialising in crisis situations and others that can help women make changes and choices for the future.

Taking risks and making a break is a courageous and difficult step.

Deciding To Take Action

You are taking control by finding out your rights, options and making a choice about how you act on them.

You can do it.

Your Rights
For Women Who Have Experienced Domestic Violence

• You have the right not to be abused.
• You have the right to anger about past violence.
• You have the right to change the situation.
• You have the right to freedom from fear of abuse.
• You have the right to request and expect assistance from the police and social agencies.
• You have the right to share your feelings and not be isolated from others.
• You have the right to be treated as an adult.
• You have the right to leave the abusive environment.
• You have the right to privacy.
• You have the right to express your own thoughts and feelings.
• You have the right to develop your individual talents and abilities.
• You have the right to legally prosecute the abusing spouse or partner.
• You have the right not to be perfect.

Act Now If:

• You and/or the children are in danger.
• You feel you cannot cope with the situation.
• Things are getting worse.
• You are carrying the burden alone.
• You believe things will be very serious if you do not do something.

What is Helpful

• Being prepared:
  

Have a clear picture of what you want to find out. This includes knowing who, and how, to contact and having questions ready to ask.

• Having a Friend:

A friend can provide support and give you more confidence. S/he can help you seek information you want, come with you to an appointment, help you remember what was discussed, help mind the children or share transport.

• Being persistent:

Keep trying. If you do not get help the first time, it is very important that you try someone else.
Don’t give up.

What You Can Do (also see Steps You Can Take)

• Call the police.
• Call a Domestic Violence Service for support/emergency help.
• See a counsellor or join a Domestic Violence
• Support Group.
• Find out your legal rights.
• Tell friends or neighbours.
• See that his violence is a crime.
• Believe it isn’t your fault.
• Recognise it is you that has done a lot to try and change things, however, only he can change his behaviour.

Tell yourself it is worth the effort to take action now.

You are worth it. You deserve things to be better.