• A health care issue?
• Behavioural indicators of abuse.
• Domestic violence and pregnancy.
• What to do when domestic violence is disclosed.
• Risk assessment.
• Domestic Violence and minority ethnic groups.
• Domestic violence and children.
• How can we help health professionals?
• A safety plan.
• Further Reading.

Discuss a safety plan for her.  She can telephone the Women’s Aid helpline or local group for advice and support.

Here are some points she should consider: 

• 4   Know where the nearest telephone is located.

• 4   Know where refuge can be sought.

• 4   Make a list of important and emergency numbers.

• 4   Save money for bus or taxi fare.

• 4   Have an extra set of keys to home and car.

• 4   Pack an emergency bag - take enough clothes, including school           uniforms and children’s favourite   possessions.

• 4   Consider when it is best to leave.  Discuss it with the children. It is important to try to leave with all the children.

• 4   Keep important documents together e.g. benefit books, medical cards, certificates, bank books, legal orders etc.

• 4   Keep a note of the family’s essential medicines.

•  

 When Leaving 

• Leave when partner is not around.

• Take all of the children.

• Take personal belongings.

• Take clothing for several days.

• Take toys.

• Take any essential medicine.

• Take important documents (medical cards, passports etc.).

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