When something doesn't feel right
Safeguarding & Emergency Escalation
If you are a volunteer, a coordinator or a woman using the service and you are worried about someone's safety, this page tells you exactly what to do.
Step 1 — Immediate danger
If someone is in immediate danger of harming themselves or others, or a crime is taking place, call 999 straight away. Do not wait, and do not try to handle it alone. You can contact the coordinator afterwards.
Step 2 — Urgent but not an emergency
If you are seriously worried but there is no immediate danger — for example someone mentions thoughts of self-harm, an unsafe relationship, or a child who may be at risk — encourage them to contact their GP, call 111, or the Samaritans on 116 123. Then tell the coordinator the same day.
Step 3 — Tell the coordinator
Every safeguarding concern, however small it seems, should be shared with the coordinator as soon as possible by emailing forherfromhersupportservice@gmail.com. Share the facts of what was said or seen — not opinions or guesses — and do not promise secrecy. Passing on a concern is never a betrayal; it is how we keep each other safe.
Step 4 — What happens next
The coordinator will record the concern, check on the woman's immediate safety, and decide whether to signpost to professional services, contact local safeguarding services, or — in serious cases — make a formal referral to the local authority or police. Volunteers are never expected to manage a safeguarding situation alone.
Afterwards
Raising a concern can feel heavy. The coordinator will check in with you too, and you are welcome to step back from a match at any point. For the wider principles behind this procedure, read our Safeguarding Policy.