Leaving a Shared Home Safely in Calgary, Alberta
Deciding to leave a shared home can be a significant and challenging step. Planning carefully can help ensure your safety and make the process smoother. This guide offers practical advice tailored to Calgary, Alberta, to support you in preparing and taking action thoughtfully.
Planning Your Departure Thoughtfully
Choosing the right time to leave is important for your safety and well-being. Consider times when your abuser is not home or less likely to be present. Early morning or when there are other people nearby may offer more security. If possible, plan your departure with trusted support or during daylight hours.
Before leaving, try to prepare quietly and discreetly. This might include setting aside important documents and essentials over several days if you can do so safely. It’s helpful to have a clear plan about where you will go after leaving, whether to a friend’s place, family member, or a shelter.
Essential Items to Take With You
Gathering necessary items in advance can reduce stress during departure. Consider including:
- Identification documents (ID, health card, passport)
- Keys (house, car, mailbox)
- Money, credit/debit cards, or bank information
- Phone and charger
- Medications and medical information
- Clothing and personal hygiene items
- Important legal documents (restraining orders, custody papers)
- Any items that have special importance or sentimental value
Keep these items in a safe, easily accessible place, such as a bag or box you can grab quickly.
Involving Police and Other Supports
If you anticipate that leaving may involve conflict or safety concerns, consider contacting the Calgary Police Service beforehand. Police can sometimes provide assistance during your departure or help enforce any protection orders in place.
It’s important to communicate your plans with someone you trust, like a friend, family member, or support worker. Letting someone know when and where you plan to leave, and when you have arrived safely, can add a layer of security.
What You Can Do
- Create a safety plan tailored to your specific situation.
- Identify a safe place to go, such as a trusted friend’s home or a local shelter.
- Pack an emergency bag with essentials and keep it accessible.
- Use a private device and browser when researching or communicating about your plans.
- Keep emergency numbers saved and easy to dial.
- Consider changing locks or securing your living space if returning temporarily.
When to Seek Help
If you feel at any point that your safety is at risk, it’s important to reach out for support. Emergency services, local shelters, and community organizations in Calgary can offer assistance. You might also want to consult with legal or counseling professionals to explore protective options and emotional support.
Trust your instincts—if a situation feels unsafe or unpredictable, seeking help promptly can make a difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I leave the home immediately if I feel unsafe?
Yes, your safety is the priority. If possible, plan your departure carefully, but immediate exit is understandable if you are in danger. - Do I need a protection order to leave safely in Calgary?
While a protection order can provide legal safeguards, you can leave safely without one. Consider contacting local services to understand your options. - How can I keep my plans private from the other person?
Use a trusted device, clear your browser history, and communicate only through secure channels. - Are there local shelters in Calgary I can go to?
Calgary has several resources and shelters that offer temporary housing and support. Contact local community organizations or search confidentially online for options. - What if I don’t have a safe place to go?
Reach out to local support services for help in finding emergency accommodation and other resources. - Can the police help me remove the other person from the home?
Police can assist if there are legal orders in place or if a crime is occurring, but their ability to remove someone depends on specific circumstances and local laws.
If you want local help, you can privately browse lawyers, therapists, shelters, and hotlines near you at DV.Support.
Leaving a shared home is a courageous step. By preparing carefully and reaching out to trusted supports, you can take actions that help protect your safety and well-being. Remember, you are not alone, and there are resources available in Calgary to support you.