The Library
Practical guideDomestic violence1 minute read
Keeping a record of abuse
Why it can help, and how to do it safely.
Keeping a record of abuse can help if you later want protection orders, police involvement, or decisions about children.
What to record
- Date, time and place
- What happened, in plain words
- Any injuries or damage
- Witnesses
- How it affected you
Keeping it safe
- Do not keep it where the abuser can find it
- Consider emailing it to a trusted person, or an account they cannot access
- Some services can hold records for you
Evidence
Photos, messages, medical records and police reports can all help. Do not put yourself at risk to collect evidence.
You do not need proof to get support
Services will help you without a file of evidence.
