Keeping Safe
Whether you are experiencing domestic abuse – or any other form of gender-based violence – or you are a professional working with someone experiencing domestic abuse, it is important that consideration is given to safety. A personal safety plan is one way of helping victims and survivors to protect themselves and those around them, whether their decision is to remain in the relationship or whether their decision is to separate from the perpetrator. It is important that this is done collaboratively with the victim and survivor, alongside specialist support, particularly in the event of separation as this can be dangerous and can be when the abuser escalates their behaviour. Specialist support services that can support with safety planning can be found within the directory below, and the locally commissioned Gender-Based Violence Service in Lewisham is Athena.
The following webpages can provide more information on keeping safe:
- http://www.refuge.org.uk/get-help-now/support-for-women/keeping-safe/
- https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/I-am-planning-to-leave-my-abuser
https://www.womensaid.org.uk/the-survivors-handbook/making-a-safety-plan/
Athena
The Athena service, run by Refuge, provides confidential, non-judgmental support to those living in the London Borough of Lewisham who are experiencing gender-based violence.
They can help you to:
- Talk to someone who understands what you are going through
- Receive support with contacting the police
- Move away from the area
- Access a refuge
- Stay at home, but want to find out how you can keep safe
- Receive support if you are considering going to court
- Access legal advice
- Manage your financial situation
