Are you being confronted, threatened or abused?

If you are being confronted, threatened or abused but it has not reached the point where you are in immediate danger, consider taking the following actions. However, you will be the best judge of what to do given your wider risk and the specific local circumstances.

• Assess the situation: Quickly assess the situation and determine the level of threat. If you feel that you are in immediate danger or at risk of harm, prioritise your safety above all else.
• Think ahead: it is important to think through what you would do if things escalate, and you are put in immediate danger.
• Stay calm: Try to remain as calm as possible. Avoid aggravating the situation with aggressive or confrontational behaviour.
• Remove yourself from the situation: If possible, remove yourself from the immediate vicinity of the confrontation or abusive behaviour. Seek a safer area where you can distance yourself from the individual or individuals involved.
• Seek help: If you feel threatened or unsafe, don't hesitate to seek help from others nearby. This could include asking bystanders for assistance, seeking refuge in a public place, or contacting security personnel or the police.
• Use de-escalation techniques: If the situation is deteriorating, and you feel comfortable and safe doing so, try to de-escalate things by using calm and assertive communication techniques. Maintain a neutral tone of voice, avoid making provocative statements and focus on defusing tension (click here for guidance on how to  de-escalate a situation).
• Document evidence: If the confrontation or abuse is ongoing or if you anticipate that it may escalate, where possible document evidence of the incident. This could include recording audio or video footage on your phone (although in some circumstances this can cause increased aggression), taking photos of any damage or injuries, or making detailed written notes about what has occurred (see After An Incident).
• Report the incident: Report the incident to the police, especially if you believe a crime has been committed or if you feel that your safety is at risk. Provide as much detail as possible about the incident, including descriptions of the individuals involved and any relevant evidence you have collected. State you are a high-risk individual and why.
• Seek support: Reach out to friends, family members, or trusted individuals for support and guidance. Talking to someone you trust can help you process the experience, and access additional resources or assistance if needed.
• Consider legal options: Depending on the severity of the situation and your specific circumstances, you may want to explore legal options for seeking protection or pursuing justice. This could involve obtaining a restraining order, filing a police report, or seeking advice from a legal professional.
• Take care of yourself: After experiencing a confrontation or an abusive incident, take care of your emotional well-being. Seek support from mental health professionals or support groups wherever necessary.