Personal Safety

For people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), being independent – doing things on their own – is really important. This means they can make choices and do things by themselves. To feel confident going out alone in public places, it's also important for them to understand how to stay safe. Knowing how to be safe helps them to feel confident when they're out in the world.

  • Make sure that those around you understand your specific needs and how they can help you in various situations.

  • Stay in touch with friends, family members, or caregivers who can provide support and assistance when needed.

  • Keep a list of trustworthy contacts, including emergency numbers, family members, caregivers, and friends, who you can reach out to if you need help.

  • Carry an identification card or bracelet with your name, emergency contacts, and any relevant medical information.

  • Be cautious in public places. If you're unsure about someone or something, seek assistance from a trusted authority figure or security personnel.

  • If you use the internet, be cautious about sharing personal information online and interacting with strangers. Stick to reputable websites and social media platforms.

  • If you're using public transportation or getting a ride from someone, ensure you're with a trusted person or familiar driver. Be sure to visit our Transport category for detailed advice in independent travel.

  • Have a clear plan for what to do in case of emergencies. Practice scenarios with a family member or caregiver so you know what to do.

    If you are ever in a an emergency don’t hesitate to call 999 or ask for help.

    Practice what to do in case of different emergencies, such as fires, talking to strangers, or getting lost.

    Practice Scenarios: Role-play different scenarios with a trusted person, so you're better prepared to handle them in real life.

  • Identify safe places where you feel comfortable and can go to if you're feeling overwhelmed or unsafe. You can use. AccessAble.co.uk lists thousands of places to visit all around the UK so you can plan in advance places that to visit suit your individual needs. Be sure to visit their website

What to do in an Emergency

  • Stay Calm: Try to stay calm and collected. Take a deep breath if needed, and remember that there are people who can help.

  • Call for Help: If you can, call 999 for emergency assistance. This number works for police, ambulance, fire, or any urgent situation.

  • Try to Communicate Clearly: If you have trouble speaking or understanding, try to communicate your situation as best as you can. If you have a communication card or device, use it to explain what's happening.

  • Provide Information: Give your name, location (address or nearby landmarks), and a brief description of the emergency. If you have any specific medical needs, allergies, or other important information, share that too.

  • Stay Safe: If you're in a dangerous situation, focus on staying safe. Follow any instructions given by emergency responders.

  • Wait for Help: Emergency services will come to assist you. Try to stay where you are and wait for them. If it's safe to do so, you can move to a more visible area, especially if you're outdoors.

  • Have Your Information Ready: It's a good idea to have your emergency contacts and any medical information easily accessible. You can keep this information on a card in your wallet or programmed into your phone.

  • Let Someone Know: If you're able to, call a family member, friend, or caregiver to let them know about the emergency and what's happening. They can provide support and meet you at the hospital or wherever you're taken.

  • Stay Patient: Emergency services might take a bit of time to reach you, depending on the situation. Stay patient and wait for their arrival.

Remember, emergency services are there to help, and they are trained to handle a wide range of situations. It's important for everyone, including people with SEND, to know what to do in an emergency to ensure their safety and well-being.

Further Support

Emergency Duty Team (EDT) - Wirral

Call the Emergency Duty Team on 0151 677 6557 to report abuse, neglect or an adult at risk if it is past 5pm Monday to Friday, or it is a weekend or bank holiday. If services are required urgently, a social care professional can provide a temporary service without a needs assessment.

Telephone: 0151 677 6557

Merseyside Police

Is it an emergency?

Does it feel like the situation could get heated or violent very soon? Is someone in immediate danger? Do you need support right away? If so, please call 999 now.

If you have a hearing or speech impairment, use our textphone service 18000 or text us on 999 if you’ve pre-registered with the emergencySMS service.

If you’ve witnessed or been the victim of crime please report it to us.

Reports are dealt with by our control room in exactly the same way whether you report it online or by telephone.

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