Staying Safe

 

Are You Safe Right Now?

If you are in immediate danger, have been threatened, or someone has been hurt, call 999 immediately.

Your safety is the most important thing.

Domestic Abuse Support

Domestic abuse can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, sexuality, ethnicity, or background. Abuse may be physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, financial, or controlling behaviour.

You are not alone, and support is available.

Suffolk Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0800 977 5690

  • Free and confidential
  • Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
  • Support for people of any gender

The helpline can provide advice, emotional support, safety planning, and information about local services.

 

Police Support

Emergency

Call 999 if:

  • You are in immediate danger
  • You have been assaulted or threatened
  • You are worried someone may be seriously harmed

Non-Emergency Police Advice

Call 101 for:

  • Advice about domestic abuse
  • Reporting concerns or criminal behaviour
  • Non-urgent police assistance
 

Housing and Homelessness Support

If you do not have somewhere safe to stay or are at risk of homelessness, help is available.

Ipswich Borough Council can provide:

  • Housing advice
  • Help if you are homeless or at risk of homelessness
  • Emergency homelessness support, including out-of-hours assistance

You can also visit the Ipswich Borough Council offices, where public access to phones and computers is available.

Learn more about Housing Options

 

Practical Support for People Experiencing Homelessness

The Chapman Centre does not provide emergency accommodation but can offer:

  • Advice and guidance
  • Help for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness
  • Food and drinks
  • Shower facilities
  • Laundry facilities
  • Clothing and other practical support

Learn more about the Chapman Centre

 

Mental Health Crisis Support

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or are struggling to cope:

Call NHS 111

Select the Mental Health Option when prompted.

Support is available for:

  • Severe distress
  • Mental health crises
  • Thoughts of self-harm
  • Urgent mental health concerns

When to Seek Immediate Help

Please seek urgent help by calling 999 if:

  • You feel unsafe
  • Someone is threatening you
  • You have been harmed
  • You believe a child or vulnerable adult is at risk
  • You are considering harming yourself or someone else
 

How Your GP Practice Can Help

We are here to listen and support you and can support you via our Health and Wellbeing Team.

If you are experiencing domestic abuse, are worried about your safety, or are facing a personal crisis, please speak to a member of our team. We can:

  • Listen to your concerns
  • Help assess your immediate safety
  • Arrange support from a clinician if needed
  • Signpost you to appropriate local services
  • Help you access safeguarding or specialist support where appropriate

You do not have to face this alone. Help is available.

Published: Aug 6, 2026