Christmas Safety and Wellbeing Plan for Survivors

Working through the points on the safety and wellbeing plan, can help you to feel safe over Christmas.

If you have a printer at home, you may wish to print the document (use the button below to access) and complete it by hand. Keep it somewhere discreet, away from the person causing you harm. You may wish to discuss it with a professional if you are currently being supported.

If you do not have a printer, you can still use the sections on the safety plan to write your plan up on paper or in a journal. For ease, we have listed everything contained in the safety plan document, further down the page.

Not every question might apply to your situation, so don’t worry if you don’t complete everything.

If you are in immediate danger, please call 999.

And if you need to chat (not in an emergency), our helpline is open 24/7 over the Christmas period.

Access The document here

Safety and Wellbeing Plan

Understanding Bail Conditions

  1. Familiarise yourself with bail conditions

  2. Review and understand all restrictions, including no-contact orders, residence restrictions,

  3. Plan Ahead: Avoid areas or situations where accidental contact with the victim might occur (e.g., family gatherings, shared community events).

  4. Consideration for the voice, risk, needs of the children. How Christmas gifts could be passed on if no contact etc.

Managing Emotional Triggers

  1. Practice deep breathing or grounding techniques during stressful moments.

  2. Use positive distractions such as hobbies, exercise, or reading.

  3. Reach out to a support network or a crisis hotline if emotions become overwhelming.

Managing Safety

  1. Avoid arguments in places that are high risk like kitchens/ top of the stairs

  2. Be cautious around what you share on Social Media, for example, sharing location or planned activities.

  3. Keep a log of perpetrators behaviour, include dates/times and locations

  4. Ensure passwords to phone / electronic devices are changed/secure.

  5. Be mindful of alcohol or substance use; this may cloud judgement or increase tension in the home.

  6. Create a Code word or Phrase that you will share with a safe person / Friend or family member in case there is an emergency situation taking place.

  7. Ensure Doors/windows are closed/locked,

  8. Ensure Video door bells (if in place) are fully charged and working

Building a Support Network

  1. Identify Supportive Contacts: Maintain communication with trusted family members, friends, or mentors

  2. Reach out to our helpline for support when needed

  3. Reach out to other mental health/support agencies if you feel you need support for your mental health

Creating a Daily Routine / Managing Wellbeing

  1. Structured Activities: Fill your day with productive and enjoyable tasks such as work, volunteering, or learning new skills.

  2. Exercise and Nutrition: Engage in physical activity and maintain a healthy diet to support mental and physical health

  3. Relaxation Time: Dedicate time to relaxation through mindfulness, meditation, or quiet hobbies

Emergency Preparation

  1. Have a Plan for urgent situations

  2. Prepare an Emergency bag for yourself and children in case you need to leave quickly.  Ensure this contains, any medication needed / important documents / change of clothing.

  3. Keep money in a safe place to use in case of an emergency

  4. Make Sure Mobile phones are fully charged and have credit on them

  5. Ensure Vehicle reversed into driveways so that it quicker to leave in an emergency.  Ensure vehicle has enough fuel/charge to get you to a safe place.

  6. If emotions escalate, leave the immediate situation and go to a safe, neutral place.

  7. Keep a list of emergency contacts, including a therapist, caseworker, or helpline.

  8. Remember to use TIME OUT

Reflecting on Personal Growth

  1. Focus on long-term goals for self-improvement.

  2. Use the holiday period as a time to reflect on changes you want to make in your life.

  3. Track Progress: Keep a journal or notes about your emotions, triggers, and how you’ve successfully navigated challenges.

Legal Compliance

  1. Ensure any social care plans that are in place are adhered to, if there is a risk that these will be or have been breached, inform Social worker immediately

  2. Familiarise yourself with any current bail conditions, if there is a breach of these, report this to the police immediately.

Other notes:

Child Social Care Status:

Plan shared with client:

Plan shared with professionals:

Key Points to Remember:

Seek Help When Needed: recognise that seeking support when needed is a strength.

By putting this safety plan in place, it will assist you in having a safe and Happy festive period.

Important contacts:

Police Emergency: 999

Police Non-Emergency: 111

My CWA: 03333 449505

SAMARITANS: 116 123

Text Shout to 85258

Cheshire East mental health 24/7 helpline:  111

Cheshire West & Chester: 111

Other resources:

Calm Breathing