Advice for helping a victim of domestic violence

[Somerset]

Hello, for anyone who may have advice - the elderly lady I want to help has left her abusive situation with just the clothes on her back. She is being cared for by family but we?d like to send a care package. At a loss as to what I should include - clothes and book vouchers, treats and cosmetics/toiletries- anything else that I could send? Thanks

[IlonaM]

I think part of the care package should include information and access to advice. Rights of Women have a lot of information on their website: https://rightsofwomen.org.uk/get-information/violence-against-women-and-international-law/ and also run a telephone helpline for free family law advice, including domestic violence: https://rightsofwomen.org.uk/get-advice/family-law/

Refuge also run a 24-hour DV helpline: https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/

[Cora]

Please do post if you find she needs certain things - people are always keen to try and help

[BellendenBear]

Please make sure that she knows how to access professional support and advocacy. In addition to the national DV helpline mentioned above, she can contact Solace if she is based in Southwark https://www.solacewomensaid.org/get-help/other-support-services/solace-advocacy-support-service-southwark. Unfortunately risk increases rather than decreases immediately after leaving an abusive relationship, so she and her family might need advice on safety.