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Keeping safe if you are planning to leave

The following items will be useful but are not essential for you to take if you decide that you want to leave in a hurry. Remember you can always ask the Police to help get these items for you later:

  • ID – passports, birth / marriage certificate, NI number, driving licence etc
  • Money – bank / credit cards
  • Medical – prescribed medicines, prescriptions, medical cards, children’s medical records
  • Legal – injunctions, divorce papers, mortgage documents, tenancy agreement
  • Special items - photos, child’s favourite toy, house, and car keys.
  • Always try to take your children with you or make arrangements to leave them with someone safe.

You can also:

  • Keep a record of the violent and controlling behaviour to support any future action you may take – civil or criminal.
  • Log incidents with the police, even if you do not want to press charges at present – this will help build up a picture.
  • Seek legal advice
  • Have any bruises or injuries recorded by a doctor for future use in any legal proceedings, rehousing procedures, etc. You can also take a picture using a camera or your mobile phone.
  • Have a packed bag ready and keep it in a secret, but accessible place so you can leave quickly.
  • Always keep your mobile phone fully charged and if safe to do so a fully charged back up phone (your DA support should be able to help you obtain this).
  • Keep important documents in a safe place, either hidden in your home at with friends / family (e.g., marriage / birth certificates, national insurance card, passport, driving licence etc,) including items of sentimental value, so that they can be grabbed in a hurry.
  • Only tell people you trust where you will be. Lie if you have to – this will protect you and them.
  • Install a personal safety App on your phone such as Hollie Guard – Personal Safety App or Bright Sky app | Hestia or both.

Remember: If the last number you called was a refuge, taxi or the place you are going to stay, dial another number – for example, the Speaking Clock (dial 123) or delete your call history.