Safety Plan
Whether you’re still in the relationship, planning to leave, or have already left, a safety plan can help reduce risk and prepare you for difficult situations.
If you’re experiencing domestic abuse, your safety is the most important thing.
You know your circumstances best, we’re here to help you think through the steps that could help keep you safe.
What Is a Safety Plan?
A safety plan is a personalised, practical plan that helps you stay as safe as possible while living with, planning to leave, or after leaving an abusive person. It includes ways to protect yourself and your children, manage risk, and prepare for emergencies.
You don’t have to do this alone, our team can help you build a plan that works for you.
If You’re Still in the Relationship
You may not be ready or able to leave yet. That’s OK, we can still help you think about safety now.
Things to consider:
Identify a safe space at home where you can go if things escalate, ideally one with an exit and no weapons.
Keep your phone charged and accessible, and try to store emergency contacts under code names.
Avoid rooms like the kitchen or bathroom during arguments these can be more dangerous.
Agree a code word with someone you trust to signal if you’re in danger and need help.
Teach children how to call 999, only if it’s safe to do so.
Hide a spare set of essentials (keys, money, ID, medications) somewhere safe or with someone you trust.
If You’re Planning to Leave
Leaving an abusive relationship can be the most dangerous time, careful planning is key. You do not have to do this alone.
Things to consider:
Speak to a support service or IDVA first we can help you plan a safe exit.
Choose a safe time to leave when the abuser is not present, if possible.
Take important documents (passport, bank cards, birth certificates) and a change of clothes.
Arrange transport or accommodation in advance, even if it’s temporary.
Consider setting up a new phone or email for safe communication.
Let a trusted person know your plan, and check in once you’re safe.
If You’ve Already Left
Even after leaving, abuse can continue through harassment, stalking, or control through children or finances.
Steps that may help:
Change locks and improve home security if possible (alarms, cameras, etc.).
Speak to us about protective orders such as a Non-Molestation Order or Domestic Violence Protection Notice.
Limit what you share online, including location tags or updates.
Let your child’s school or nursery know about your situation and who can collect your children.
Inform your workplace so they can support you with security or adjustments.
Safety Planning with Our Team
You don’t have to figure this out alone. Our trained specialist team including Outreach Support and IDVAs can help you:
Understand your level of risk
Build a tailored safety plan for your situation
Access emergency accommodation or refuge
Navigate police, court, housing or social services
Feel more confident about your next steps
All conversations are confidential, and we’ll never pressure you to make decisions before you’re ready.
In Immediate Danger?
Call 999
If you can’t speak, press 55 when prompted to signal distress (Silent Solution).
Leave the line open if possible so operators can hear what’s happening.
Get in Touch
You deserve to feel safe and we’re here to help you get there.