Safety Plan
Having a safety plan will help you feel better prepared If an emergency situation occurs.
Pack a bag and leave it somewhere safe and accessible.
Leaving a bag with friends or relatives means that you can collect it safely once you have left the emergency situation.
Have a list of contact numbers.
This should include local w.a. refuge or helpline, GP, social worker, children’s school and solicitor.
Have some money available for the phone train/bus fares.
Items you may need
- Birth certificates
- Passports
- Identification eg. benefit letters
- N.I. numbers
- Keys
- Documents for car, driving licence and insurance etc.
- Medication
- Children’s favourite toys
- Clothing
Try to change your routine so that your movements cannot be predicted.
Change your mobile sim card as your mobile could be traced.
Have bank statements re-directed as bank statements will have details of your location when using cashpoints or marking purchases using a debit card.
Explain the situation to schools, employers etc and consider whether it is wise to have some time away.
CHILDREN AND VIOLENCE/ABUSE
IF you have children you have probably tried to protect them shield them from arguments or violent episodes. Just because your children are in a different part of the house, this does not mean they are not aware of what is going on. Even if you have managed to shield them, they will be aware of your changing moods. Violence and abuse affects everyone in the household.
Most children would benefit from being able to talk about what is going on and talk about their feelings but they may be reluctant to do this until they feel safe.
You may believe that keeping the family together is best for the children despite the ongoing fear, anxiety and abuse. However children will feel more secure with one parent in a stable safe situation than two in a situation of violence, anger and fear.