Leaving home in an emergency is hard. Having a bag ready means you do not have to think in a moment of panic.
A safety bag is a bag you pack in advance. You keep it somewhere easy to grab. It holds the things you need if you have to leave quickly.
What to put in your bag
Start with your documents. These are the hardest to replace.
- Your passport or ID card
- Your children’s passports or birth certificates
- Your marriage certificate
- Your visa or immigration documents
- Your National Insurance number (write it down if you cannot take the card)
- Any court orders or injunctions you have
Add anything you need day to day:
- Enough cash for a few days — cards can be tracked
- Your phone and a charger
- Prescription medication for you and your children
- A spare set of clothes for you and your children
- A bank card your partner does not know about
If your children are with you, add a comfort item for them. A small toy or book can help them feel safe.
Where to keep it
Keep it somewhere your partner will not find it. A trusted friend or family member can hold it for you. A locker at work is another option. If you have to keep it at home, store it at the back of a wardrobe or under a bed.
Tell one person where it is.
If you cannot pack a bag
You do not need a bag to leave. Leave with nothing if you have to. You can replace things. You cannot replace yourself.
If you need help making a safety plan, talk to our team. We will not judge you. We will help you think through your options at your own pace.
You can also call the National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247. It is free. It is available 24 hours a day.
About Project Salama: We are a UK-registered charity providing free, confidential support to people affected by domestic abuse, with a focus on Black, Asian, and minoritised ethnic communities in the UK. Learn more about our work →