We understand how difficult it can be to leave an abusive relationship as a Gypsy, Roma or Traveller. Remember, you know your life best and you are the only one who gets to decide what you need to feel safe. Watch our videos about safety planning here:
Safety planning can look like:
We know that the abuse does not always end because the relationship ends, so safety planning is something you can do at any time. Additional considerations could be:
Listen to Mari, who works at an organisation called Refuge, explain what an Independent Domestic Violence Advocate (IDVA) is and how they can support you.
This refuge is based in Surrey, listen to the video below to learn more about the housing and supports they provide:
While there are many orders in the Family Court, there are two types of court orders for domestic abuse (‘injunctions’) that you may be able to apply for. Learn more here.
If you are experiencing domestic abuse and worry about your children’s safety, would you like a family member to support you by minding the children? This is called kinship care.