Safety planning - Keeping safe
"Don’t suffer in silence, get in touch with the relevant agencies, confide in someone you trust, plan your escape, save a little money, pack an emergency bag and then leave. Your life is the most important issue."
At LWA, we understand how hard it can be to leave an abusive partner – that’s why so many people stay in such abusive relationships for so long. Getting free from abuse can be a lengthy process, but you must never be afraid of asking us for help.
Checklist 1: Before you go
- Plan an emergency escape and get a neighbour’s support if possible.
- Keep money saved for taxis, bus fares and telephone calls.
- Get the telephone numbers for your nearest Women’s Aid Group (but be aware that an abuser could trace you by dialling 1471, pressing last number recall or itemised phone bills – therefore a phone box may be the best bet).
- Keep a list of emergency contact numbers.
Checklist 2: What to take with you
- Clothes for you and your children.
- Any medication that you or your children need.
- Toiletries.
- Bank cards.
- Benefit books, bank books and other forms of identification.
- National Insurance Number.
- Wage slips, P45.
- Birth certificates.
- Passports / Visas and related documents.
- Driving licence.
- Children’s medical records.
- Address book / useful telephone numbers.
- House keys.
- Important photographs.
- A favourite toy or book.
- Money.
If, however you are unable to bring any of these items, do not worry. If you arrive with only the clothes on your back, we will be able to help.