If you decide to leave, there are a number of things you can do to make the situation easier.
Try to remain calm at all times. If you able to collect any of the following items before leaving it will help. If you can’t collect the originals try and get copies:
- important documents for yourself and children i.e. birth certificates, passports, marriage certificates, driving license, medical documents, bank/building society details
- children’s favourite toys
- clothing for you and your children
- any prescribed medicines for you or children
- try and save some money wherever possible
- keep a spare set of keys somewhere, leave with a friend or relative for safe keeping
- think about transport to get away
- develop a signal with family, friend or neighbour to let them know its time to escape
- if possible try to leave when your partner is not around or create an excuse to slip out.
Your personal safety is most important – do not put yourself at more risk.
Changes you can make once you have separated:
- if possible change your daily routine
- if possible use different places to those your partners knows you may use regularly (shops etc.)
- if you have moved, do not disclose your address to anyone who may pass it on to your partner
- if necessary change your phone numbers and do not disclose the new numbers to anyone unless they really need to have them. It is also a good idea to ask your phone company to be ex-directory
- keep a diary of any contact with your partner – date, times and a brief note of what was said
- notify your child(ren)’s school of your separation.
Last updated: 23/07/2024 13:18