Safety Planning

Prepare an emergency strategy if you are returning to an abusive situation:

  • Know where the nearest telephone is located.
  • Know where refuge / safe accommodation can be sought.
  • Make a list of emergency and other important numbers – store them in your mobile phone.
  • Save money for bus or taxi fares.
  • Obtain an extra set of keys to your home and car.
  • Pack an emergency bag – take enough clothes, including school uniforms and children’s favourite possessions (where appropriate). Put the bag in a safe place or give it to a friend or relative you can trust.
  • Plan an escape route out of your home teach this to your children.
  • Consider when it is best to leave. It is important to try to take all of the children
  • Keep important documents together e.g. benefit books, medical cards, certificates, bank books, legal orders, etc.
  • Keep a note of the family’s essential medicines and have an immediate supply available.

Prepare a leaving strategy if you are leaving an abusive situation:

  • If possible, leave when the abuser is not around.
  • Take all of the children and some of each child’s favourite possessions (where appropriate).
  • Take personal belongings, benefit, bank and legal documentation.
  • Bring essential family medicines.

Remember in the event of an emergency call 999.

The Live Fear Free, 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline – 0808 2000 247

 

For more information on how to stay safe and for safety plans for children please view Safe Lives website.

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