Survivor Tips and Recommendations
If you are an LGBT victim/survivor of domestic violence:
- Know that you are not responsible for your partner's abusive behavior.
- You have the right to a safe and healthy relationship.
- Establish contacts with friends and family so you have a safe place to go.
- Consider obtaining a restraining order to aid in your protection. We can assist you.
- Talk to a counselor who is trained in LGBT domestic violence issues. Warning: couples counseling can potentially make your situation more dangerous!
Follow the safety plan below or develop an individualized safety plan that fits your unique needs and concerns in conjunction with a LGBT-domestic violence specialist.
Safety Planning
- Leaving an abusive relationship without a safety plan, support and information about your options is potentially dangerous and can put your life and well-being at risk.
- Keep a bag packed that is ready to go and easy to grab at a moment's notice in case you need to leave quickly.
- If an argument seems unavoidable, try to move to a room with easy access to an exit. Do not relocate to a bathroom, kitchen or any location where there are potential weapons.
- Keep emergency cash hidden where you can get to it quickly. Keep important papers with you or in your packed bag so you will have them when you leave.
- Devise a code word to use with your family, children, friends or neighbors to alert them if you need the police.
- If the situation is dangerous, use your best judgment to keep yourself safe. Call the police as soon as it is safe to do so.
- You have the right to obtain a restraining order. Keep the restraining order with you at all times. Leave extra copies at work, with a friend, in your car, etc.
Checklist: What You May Need to Take When Leaving
- Identification: birth certificates, driver's license
- Money, ATM card, checkbook, credit card, cash
- House and car keys
- Photos of injuries your partner inflicted on you
- Legal papers: Copy of restraining order, medical records, paternity or custody papers, etc. Address book, important telephone numbers
- Work permits, green card, passport, etc.
- Children
- Pets
- Medications and other medical supplies
If this is an emergency, call 911! Call us at: 323-860-5806 or send an email message to [email protected] After regular business hours, you can also call the 24-hour national domestic violence hotline at 888-799-7233 (SAFE).