Domestic Abuse - Safety Planning Advice

Whether or not you feel you can leave your abuser, there are things you can do to keep you and your family safe.

 

Safety planning can help you think through risks and plan in advance before an emergency situation occurs.But if you are in immediate danger, always call 999.

What is a safety plan?

A safety plan is a list of clear and practical steps you can take to protect yourself if you are experiencing abuse or violence. This can be helpful in any abusive situation and especially if you are worried that things could become dangerous or if you decide to leave the situation.

Why would it be a good idea to make a safety plan?

Abusive and violent situations can feel unpredictable and beyond your control. However, safety planning is a way to regain some control over what is happening to you. It can give you some reassurance and practical steps to take if you’re feeling anxious about your safety. A safety plan can give you an indication of who to call, where to go, and what to do when you believe a perpetrator might harm you or anyone in your care.

How do I make a safety plan?

Every safety plan looks different and it’s important to find a format that works for you. Below are listed some resources that can help you consider what to include in your safety planning.

  • Women’s Aid has a guide to safety planning and staying safe.  It has been put together with assistance from victims and survivors of Domestic Abuse and has useful tips such as memorising important phone numbers, planning escape routes, and keeping an emergency bag with things you might need if you had to leave home in a hurry.
  • You could also visit the Independent Domestic Abuse Services (IDAS) website who has a list of things you may like to include in your safety plan, such as thinking about where you might go in an emergency, trying to keep a small amount of money on you at all times, and teaching your children to call 999 in an emergency.
  • You can have a look at some template safety plans to help get you started, for example Norfolk County Council’s template safety plan or ManKind’s template safety plan

What if I need help making my safety plan?

It’s important to remember that there are specialist support organisations who can help advise you on how to improve your safety and who can help you come up with your safety plan. For more information on support available to you,please visit our service directory.  You can also contact Victims First and we will be happy to help advise you on the best way to get help.

Remember, do not leave safety plans anywhere the abuser could access them. In addition, plans should never be shared with the abuser.

 

References:
https://www.womensaidnel.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Safety-Planning-Feb11.pdf
https://www.scottishwomensrightscentre.org.uk/covid-safety/