Physical & Emotional Abuse Support Group
Abuse is a general term for the treatment of someone that causes some kind of harm (to the abused person, to the abusers themselves, or to someone else) that is unlawful or wrongful. No one deserves abuse, period. Abuse can be emotional, physical, or sexual.
I was talking to a lady whom told me she was in a shelter and it was terrible. I didn't have the opportunity to ask her about her experience but what she said did put me on pause.
Are the women's shelters that bad? If not, then how can a woman weed out the bad ones?
Are the women's shelters that bad? If not, then how can a woman weed out the bad ones?
I've heard of both good and bad experiences. So, you might want to ask around for 'word of mouth' as to the reputation of your local shelter.
If you are thinking about leaving and need the assistance of a shelter, you could go down and ask to speak with the director. During that conversation you can ask about their services (do they offer weekly group therapy, referrals to therapists and/or attorneys who specialize in helping DV victims, housing, finding a job, clothing, food, etc.). My local shelter will go pick up a client if they don't have a way to get there. Services differ from shelter to shelter.
Also ask if they will help you make a SAFE plan to leave.
Check out their protocol (criteria to stay there, criteria for other services, how long you can stay, house rules, do they take kids, pets, etc.).
You have every right to inquire about the condition of the facilities, how long the waiting list is, as well as what your other options are as to temporary housing and other services. Whether or not they will show you the facilities is questionable because until they verify you are in need, they will not disclose the location of the actual shelter. (for example, my local shelter office is not at the same location as the shelter itself.)
You also might want to check with the United Way your county services and local churches to see if they offer services.
~healing hugs~