The 'preparing to leave' checklist

promo imageIf you are in immediate danger of violence in the home call 999. If, however, you are concerned about abuse please seek advice and consider all your options for leaving safely

Here are some preparations you can make as you decide what is right for you:

  • Get practical and emotional advice from the National Domestic Violence Freephone Helpline: 0808 2000 247. It's confidential, free and operates 24 hours. The helpline may also be able to help you find emergency accommodation.
  • Talk to a trusted friend or family member. They may be able to offer you a safe place to stay if you need a break or if you decide to leave.
  • Keep a list of essential phone numbers in a safe place. These should include the 24-Hour National Domestic Violence Freephone Helpline 0808 2000 247, your local police station and a solictor's number.
  • Always keep your mobile fully charged or your card topped up.

As you prepare to leave, you may want to keep a small holdall packed with the following items:

Personal items

  • A change of clothes and toiletries for you and your children
  • Some money
  • Duplicate car key
  • Medication for you and your children
  • A child's special toy
  • Jewellery
  • Spectacles
  • Mobile phone charger
  • Address book
  • Photographs

Key documents

  • Passports
  • Benefit books
  • Driver's licence
  • Any court orders/injunctions
  • Birth certificates for yourself and your children
  • Divorce papers/marriage licence
  • Bank details/account numbers
  • Credit cards/cheque books
  • Mortgage or housing details
  • National insurance number
  • Medical cards for you and your children

Pack these items over a period of time. Only you will know when this is safe to do so. Keep the holdall in a safe and secret place, perhaps at the home of a relative or friend.

Don't worry if you forget something; you can always be escorted back to your home by the police to collect important possessions.

Remember, if you are in immediate danger call 999 - the police have a duty to protect you and can arrest and charge where appropriate.

For more information visit www.refuge.org.uk