Help and info for women
Here are some practical ideas of how you can stay safe now. Take one step at a time and start with the one that is easiest and safest for you.
Tell someone you trust about the abuse
Keep importanct and emergency numbers with you e.g. your local Women's Aid Group, the police and the freephone National Domestic Abuse Helpline (0800 027 1234)
Teach your children to call 999 in an emergency, and what they would need to say; e.g. their full name, address and telephone number. Teach them it is important to keep safe when there is abuse. Tell them not to get between you and your partner if there is violence. Plan a code word to signal they should get help or leave.
Rehearse an escape plan, so in an emergency you and the children can get away safely.
Pack an emergency bag for yourself your children, and hide it somewhere safe like at a neighbour's or friend's house. Things to keep in an emergency bag include important documents like birth certificates, passports, bank cards, any papers relating to the abuse (police reports and court orders) and personal items like family photos, jewellery, small items of sentimental value, clothing and toiletries for you and your children and your children's favourite small toys.
If you can, try to keep a small amount of money on you at all times.
Know where the nearest phone is and if you have a mobile phone, try to keep it with you.
If you think that your partner is about to attack you, try and move to a place where there is a way out and access to a telephone. Try and avoid the kitchen or garage where there are likely to be knives or other weapons.