ANCHOR
Once you are out, or once you have begun to create separation, the next challenge is stability.
Economic abuse often leaves people with damaged credit, coerced debts, no savings, and no financial history in their own name. Anchoring is about establishing a financial foundation — however small — that belongs only to you.
This stage is not about being sorted. It’s about being steady enough to take the next step.
Sort your immediate income
Make sure any wages, benefits, or Child Benefit are going into an account your partner cannot access. If you were previously on a joint Universal Credit claim, tell the DWP you have separated — your own claim starts from that moment and your partner cannot see your information.
Get specialist debt advice
If you have debts that your partner ran up in your name, you don’t have to simply pay them. Contact StepChange (0800 138 1111) or National Debtline (0808 808 4000) — both have advisers trained in economic abuse and coerced debt. The Economic Abuse Evidence Form (EAEF) can be sent to your creditors so you only have to tell your story once.
Access your benefits entitlements
You may be entitled to more than you think. If you have left with children, you may be able to receive Housing Benefit on both your old home and a refuge or temporary accommodation at the same time, in some circumstances and usually for up to 52 weeks. A Citizens Advice adviser or debt adviser can help you run through exactly what you are entitled to.
Start rebuilding your credit
If your credit has been damaged, request a Notice of Correction be added to your file. You can also apply to be financially disassociated from your former partner. A basic bank account (no credit check required) is a good first step if you are struggling to open a standard account.
Find safe housing
If you need help with housing costs, ask your local council about Sanctuary Schemes (free security improvements to your home so you can stay safely) or Discretionary Housing Payments. Your local authority has legal obligations under the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 (England and Wales) to ensure DA survivors can access safe accommodation support.
