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If you are considering leaving a violent
relationship, you will probably have many questions and apprehensions
about what happens next. If and when you are ready to move on, it is important to devise a safety plan in order to secure your sfaety and well being, as well as that of your children. .
When devising a Safety Plan,
you should:
 Know
where to go and what to do in an emergency.
Call
999 in the event of an emergency.
You
can contact the Domestic Abuse Unit of Wolverhampton on 01902 649032.
Teach
your children what to do in an emergency. Tell them to call 999 and
be able to give your address.
Devise
an escape route out of your house.
Know
where your nearest working phone box is.
Have
any bruises or injuries recorded by a doctor for future use in any
legal proceedings, rehousing procedures, etc. You can also take picture
using a camera or mobile phone camera.
Where Can I Go?
Be prepared! Know your local services:
Local
refuges/hostels such as The Haven Wolverhampton – 01902 713 001
National
Women’s Aid Number - 0808 2000 247
Homeless
Family Unit of the local Council (Wolverhampton City Council Homeless
Services - 01902 554747, 554807, 554741 or 551037).
What Do I Take With Me?
Try to gather the items you want to take over a period of time. Be careful
not to draw the perpetrator’s attention to your actions.
You will need identification. This is
important when trying to apply for benefits and accessing housing and
legal proceedings.
| The
list below includes items which will be useful – but it
is not worth putting yourself at risk in trying to pack them. |
If
you cannot take the items listed on the left, you should have
two forms of identification from the following list: |
| Child benefit |
Medical cards |
| Benefit Books |
Bills |
| Passport |
Tenancy Agreement |
| Full Driving License |
Letters addressed to you |
| |
Library card |
Pack a small bag
if possible with:
Medicine
Underwear
Nappies/bottles
Photos
Children’s favourite toys
Additional Measures...
Is there anyone else who you could involve who you trust? It can be an added
safety measure if someone else knows of your plans, BUT they must be someone
you can trust. E.g. Head teacher/ form teacher, neighbour, employer, etc.
Before Leaving...
If the last number you dialled was a taxi, refuge or the place you are going, dial another number – for example, the Speaking Clock (dial 123)
Do not leave pieces of paper with names, numbers or addresses on them. Remember
that writing can be imprinted through more than one page on a jotter/note pad.
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