- Pack a bag and leave it somewhere safe and accessible - leaving a bag with friends or relatives means that you can collect it safely once you have left the emergency situation.
- Have a list of contact numbers - this should include local refuges and helplines, GP, social worker, children's school and solicitor.
- Have some money available for the phone and travelling expenses.
- Items you may need include: Birth Certificates, Passports, Identification (e.g. benefit letters, etc.), NI Numbers, Keys, Documents for car (driving licence, insurance, etc.), Medication, Children's favourite toys, Clothing, etc.
- Try to change your routine so that your movements cannot be predicted.
- Change your mobile sim card because your mobile could be traced.
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Have bank statements re-directed as bank statements will have details of your location when using cashpoints or marking purchases using a debit card.
- Explain the situation to schools, employers, etc. and consider whether it is wise to have some time away.
Living with violence and abuse can bring many difficulties. You may need help from other agencies at times. Here is is a list of useful contacts and how to get in touch with them:
Police
Emergencies - 999 (Don't hesitate to call if you're afraid - that's what it's there for)
Non Emergencies - 101
Nairn – 01667 452222
Inverness – 01463 715555
Aviemore – 01479 810222
Social Work
Nairn – 01667 453746
Aviemore – 01479 810251
Inverness – 01463 724040
HC Housing Services
Inverness – 01463 703847
Nairn – 01667 458504
Kingussie – 01540 664512
Benefits Agency – 0800 055 6688
Benefit Enquiry Line – 0800 882 200
Tax Credits – 0845 300 3900
Solicitors (Legal Aid)
Ewen Macdonald @ Anderson, Shaw & Gilbert – 01463 236123
Gowans & Dickson – 01463 238888
Innes & Mackay – 01463 232273
R & R Urquart (Nairn) – 01667 453278