What can I take with me to a refuge?

As a guide, remember to take with you the following:

• Identification
• Birth Certificates for you and your children
• School and medical records, including telephone numbers of school and GP surgery
• Money, bank books, cheque book and credit cards
• Keys - house, car, work
• Driving license and car registration documents
• Prescribed medication and vitamin supplements
• Welfare Benefit identification and child allowance book
• Passports, visas and work permits
• Mortgage details or lease and rental agreements
• Current unpaid bills
• Insurance documents
• Address book
• Family photographs, diary, jewellery, small items of sentimental value
• Children's favourite item of clothing and small toys
• Toiletries and clothes for you and your children

Not all women will need all of these items, and there may be some items that you would need to take that have not been included in this list, but this is a general guide.

What can't I take with me?

You will not be able to take large items such as furniture with you to the refuge, nor will you be able to take pets.

If you have a dog, or dogs, you should contact your local branch of the National Canine Defence League before you go to the refuge. The NCDL operate regional 'fostering' schemes for dogs, and sometimes other pets, whose owners cannot afford to pay for private kennel arrangements while they are seperated from their pets temporarily. You will find the telephone number of your local NCDL in your area, contact your local RSPCA or Blue Cross instead. These numbers should also be in your local telephone directory.

Under the Homeless Persons Act of 1977 (ss70.1.a.B) which was consolidated in 1985 the Local Authority have a responsibility to store people's property and effects. Pets are classified as property and hence can be placed in private kennels. However, the owner will have to pay for kennel fees and furniture storage and claim to be refunded by the DSS afterwards.