Creating a safe space

Nov 1, 2021

We get requests for cabins for all sorts of reasons.

If you are living in fear in your relationship or in your family, there are so many ways you can find help right now. Domestic violence is a pattern of power, control and coercion. Abuse is not just physical, trust your intuition. If something does not feel right to you, then it’s not OK.

If you are being abused, remember it’s not your fault. Violence is never okay. No one deserves to be abused, and there are organisations out there to help you.

There are challenges to leaving any relationship, especially when there is abuse and violence involved. Often moving home to family can be a positive solution, for emotional and psychological support.

Women’s Refuge warmly welcomes all women and their children to access our support, advocacy and crisis accommodation. If you need help or have questions, they have a live chat to get in touch.

First things first

If you’re in immediate danger call 111 immediately!

If you fear for your safety.

• Run outside and head for where there are other people.
• Ask someone to call 111.
• If you have children take them with you if you can.
• Don’t stop to get anything else.

Making a plan

The safety of you and your children (if you have them) will be your primary concern. If you’re not ready or cannot safely leave, here are some things you can do to stay safe now.

• Make a safety plan with the guidance of a refuge advocate.
• Get yourself a pre-paid phone; keep it charged and safe.
• Keep photocopies of important documents (passport, birth certificate, bank account details, medical notes, driver’s licence, etc) and store these at the home of a supportive friend or family member.
• Keep a journal of all violent incidents, noting dates and events.
• If you can, open your own bank account and try to save some money.
• If you have pets you are worried about, consider them in your safety plan.

Getting out

The most important thing is for you and your children to get out safely. It is important to know that leaving a violent relationship can be one of the most dangerous times for women and children, so it is important to make a safety plan around leaving and keep your plans confidential. Below are some tips to help you make a plan.

If you can, pack a bag with bare necessities and important documents that you can leave with someone you trust. Include important documents such as passport, birth certificate, bank account details, driver’s licence, and bank cards and other things like medicines.

Know the abuser’s schedule and safe times to leave.

Being safe online

The safest way to browse the internet if you suspect your browsing history is being monitored is to use your browser’s private or incognito mode.

If you suspect your device has been compromised by spyware, then you should use consider using another device as some spyware may still be able to monitor incognito sessions.

You should see a message in the new window saying that you are now browsing privately. When finished, don’t forget to close your browser window to ensure your safety and privacy.

RoomMate Cabins, a safe space

The RoomMate Cabins website is a place of refuge. If you need help but are worried about repercussions from a controlling or abusive partner, this is a safe way to find it.

With our link to the Women’s Refuge Shielded Site, victims of domestic violence can access a shielded portal through which they can make contact – all without fear of it showing up in their browser history for anyone else to find.

You can find a link at the bottom of our website.

Whatever your needs, a RoomMate cabin can provide you with a safe space for your loved ones. If you’re looking for the safety our portable cabins provide, give us a call on 0800 111 344 or contact your nearest RoomMate Cabins supplier today.