What To Do If You've Been Abused
- The first thing is to admit to yourself it is happening.
- The second thing is to remind yourself that it is not your fault.
- The third thing is to accept that you cannot control another person.
- The fourth thing is to remember you don't deserve it.
- The fifth thing is to know this is not what your parents planned for you
- The sixth thing is to remember this is not what you planned for yourself
- The seventh thing is to remember this is not what your spouse/partner promised you
- The eighth thing is to remember this is not what you planned for your children.
- The ninth thing is to remember you can start to change your situation today if you want to.
- The tenth thing is we can help you when and if your are ready.
- The eleventh thing is we will support you no matter what your decision is.
- The twelfth thing is remember you don't have to be battered to be broken. Ring the refuge 041-9844550
Safety Plan
If you have been in or are living in a violent relationship, you need to look after your own safety and that of your children. You need to be ready to take action if you are at risk of being assaulted. Getting some useful items together in a safe place, can help you later if you need to leave quickly.
Useful items to have ready :
- Medication for yourself and your children
- Medical Card
- P.P.S. numbers
- Children's allowance and benefit books
- Bank, Post office, Credit union books (your own)
- Marriage, Birth Certificates, Driving Licence and Passports (your own and children's).
- Identity card if appropriate
- Money, Keys, Taxi/Refuge number.
- Children's favourite toys, soothers, blankets, bottles.
If you are in immediate danger leave everything, do not put yourself or your children at risk. The Gardai can come back with you later to collect you belongings.
The staff and volunteers of Drogheda Women's refuge are trained to offer you information and support. We will not tell you what to do.it is your life and your decision.
It is a good idea to report any physical assault or abuse to both your local doctor or hospital. Also the Gardai and the refuge. Even if you do not want to take legal action at this time. Apart from being essential to have injures treated properly, doctor/hospital and Gardai/refuge reports can be useful as vital evidence later should you decide to take legal in the future.
If you need safe accommodation, you and your children can seek shelter at your nearest women's refuge.
Drogheda Women's refuge 041-9844550 24 hour help line
Dundalk Women's refuge 042- 9333245
Navan Women's refuge 046-9022393
Or Women's Aid Free phone Help line (1800 341 900)
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