Your safety is paramount
BROWSING SAFELY
This site stores information in your browser history. If someone checks your device, they may be able to see that you have visited.
Steps to reduce this risk:
Use a private or incognito window. This does not save browsing history, cookies, or form data.
On Chrome: press Ctrl + Shift + N (Windows) or Command + Shift + N (Mac).
On Safari: press Command + Shift + N.
On Firefox: press Ctrl + Shift + P.
Use a device the person does not have access to. A library computer, a friend's phone, or a work device may be safer.
If you cannot use a private window, delete your browser history after visiting this site.
HOW TO DELETE YOUR BROWSER HISTORY
Chrome: Settings > History > Clear browsing data > select time range > clear.
Safari: History > Clear History > select time range > clear.
Firefox: Settings > Privacy and Security > Clear History.
Edge: Settings > Privacy, Search and Services > Clear browsing data.
IF SOMEONE MONITORS YOUR DEVICE
Some abusers use monitoring software (sometimes called spyware or stalkerware) to track what you do online. If you think this is happening:
Use a different device if possible.
Do not try to remove monitoring software yourself. This can alert the person monitoring you.
Contact a specialist domestic abuse service for advice. They can help you make a safety plan that includes your digital safety.
ABOUT THIS SURVEY
The Our Own Words survey is anonymous. We do not collect your name, address, or contact details. We do not store your IP address. Your responses cannot be traced back to you.
Even so, if someone looks at your screen or your browser history, they may see that you have visited this site or taken the survey. Use the steps above to reduce that risk.
IF YOU ARE IN IMMEDIATE DANGER
Call 999.
If you cannot speak, call 999 and press 55. This signals to the operator that you cannot talk.
SUPPORT AND HELPLINES
National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247 (free, 24 hours, run by Refuge)
Men's Advice Line: 0808 801 0327 (free, for men experiencing abuse)
Galop (LGBT+ abuse): 0800 999 5428
Karma Nirvana (honour-based abuse): 0800 599 9247
Deaf Hope (BSL): via website at deafhope.co.uk
Childline: 0800 1111
A NOTE TO PRACTITIONERS
Do not ask people to complete this survey on a shared or monitored device. Do not complete the survey on someone's behalf without their knowledge and consent. If you are supporting someone to take part, do so in a private, safe setting of their choosing.