Are you in Danger?

IF YOU, OR YOUR CHILDREN ARE IN IMMEDIATE DANGER, PHONE 111 AND ASK FOR THE POLICE.

Many victims normalise the violence or abuse in their lives as it has become such a regular occurrence. You may actually be at risk of being seriously injured or killed! Have a look at these risk factors which at Jigsaw would be taken most seriously.

Has your partner ever...

• Used threats to harm, or kill yourself or a member of your family?
• Tried to strangle you (had his/her hands around your throat)?
• Forced you to have sex or other sexual acts?
• Used a weapon against you, or threatened to?
• Threatened to commit suicide if you leave him/her?
• Become violent towards you whilst under the influence of alcohol or other substances?
• Assaulted you whilst pregnant?
• Used unhealthy controlling behaviours eg stalking you, checking your whereabouts constantly, checking your phone/phone messages, being possessive and jealous, and isolating you from friends and family?
• Abused, hurt or killed animals, or pets?
• Used threats of suicide?
• Have a history of breaching court orders, or bail conditions?

If you are experiencing any of the above issues, and/or the violence is escalating, you (and your children) may be in serious danger of being killed or seriously injured.

Another warning sign is if an ex-partner is unable to accept your separation and is using any of the behaviours listed above. Leaving is usually the most dangerous time in an abusive relationship!

If you contact our Jigsaw duty phone 0508 440 255 you will be able to discuss your situation safely with an experienced staff member who can help you look at the options available to you. We can assist you to make a safety plan, plan ahead if you wish to leave a relationship, or apply for a Protection Order if this is what you wish to do. You and your children have the right to be safe!