Every survivor needs a foundation of safety before healing can begin.
Dear Colleague,
Survivors often walk into our offices carrying invisible alarms that never turn off. Safety is not just physical. It includes emotional, psychological, and financial dimensions that are frequently overlooked. As providers, we are not only asked to recognize danger. We are also tasked with helping survivors feel safe enough to hope.
Establishing a safety plan is a vital first step in trauma-informed care.
It is not a checklist. It is a living document that reflects the unique risks, values, and circumstances of each survivor. Whether someone is planning to leave or already has, we must prioritize survivor safety in every interaction.
The most dangerous time for a survivor is often right after leaving an abusive partner.
Research shows that this period carries the highest risk of homicide, especially when power and control have been central in the relationship. Our vigilance and planning can literally save lives. That is why tools like the Types of Abuse Worksheet and Red Flags of Abuse Freebie are essential to keep on hand.
Creating safety takes collaboration and clarity. Survivors deserve both.
We model trust when we slow down, offer choices, and stay aware of danger signals. It is never too early to start a conversation about survivor safety. And it is never too late to revise a plan when new threats appear.
Safety is not the end goal. It is the ground survivors need to rise.
With appreciation for all you do,
#supportsurvivors #safetyplanning #traumainformedcare #domesticviolenceawareness #providereducation