A Safe Home case study from the Blue Lamp Trust
For confidentiality and safeguarding reasons, the name used in this case study has been changed and identifying details have been removed. This account is shared with full consent to demonstrate how practical home security support for domestic abuse survivors can help people regain safety, confidence, and peace of mind.
Through its Safe Home service, the Blue Lamp Trust provides home safety visits across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, supporting older and vulnerable residents and those experiencing heightened risk following crime, abuse, or safeguarding concerns.
When home no longer feels safe
For most people, home is the place where they should feel safest. But when a relationship breaks down, that sense of security can quickly be replaced with uncertainty, fear, and vulnerability.
For many victims of domestic abuse, concerns about personal safety do not end when the relationship ends. Continued access to a property, knowledge of security vulnerabilities, or the fear of being monitored can leave people feeling unsafe in their own homes.
‘Sarah’ had recently separated from her husband. Although the relationship had ended, she believed they had remained on relatively good terms. They still shared responsibility for their dogs and occasionally kept in touch.
Then something changed.
Sarah began noticing unfamiliar beeping sounds coming from her car. At first, she couldn’t work out where the noise was coming from. After searching the vehicle more carefully, she discovered two tracking devices concealed inside a first aid kit in the boot.
The only person who had access to the car was her former partner.
The discovery was deeply unsettling.
Concerned for her safety and that of her two children, who lived with her at the property, Sarah contacted the police. After reviewing the circumstances and messages between the parties, the situation was identified as domestic abuse.
“You see this kind of thing on the news and never think it will be you.”
Living with uncertainty after domestic abuse
Although the relationship had ended, Sarah’s former partner still had a key to her home.
That fact alone significantly affected her sense of security.
She described feeling constantly on edge, worried that he could enter the property without her knowledge.
“It made me feel so unsafe in my own home that he may come and go when he wanted.”
Her daily life began to change. She found herself repeatedly checking doors and windows, struggling to sleep, and feeling heightened anxiety in the place that should have offered comfort and safety.
Although she worked hard to protect her children from the emotional strain of the situation, the pressure on her was considerable.
“Kids have not been too affected, so I’m glad it’s been more me than them.”
But the fear remained.
Police referral and first contact
Following her report, Sarah was referred to the Blue Lamp Trust Safe Home service by the police.
Police referrals play an important role in connecting vulnerable individuals with practical crime prevention support in Hampshire, helping ensure people receive the support they need quickly and safely.
Sarah described the support and follow-up through the referral process as “amazing” and was grateful for the continued contact and guidance during such a stressful time.
Shortly afterwards, the Blue Lamp Trust contacted her to explain the support available and arrange a home visit.
The goal was simple but crucial: remove the risk of unauthorised access and help Sarah regain a sense of safety and control within her own home.
How a Safe Home security visit helped restore safety
One of the Blue Lamp Trust’s trained, police-vetted Safety Technicians attended the property to carry out a full home security and fire safety assessment.
During the visit:
• The main front and rear door locks were replaced
• The overall security of the property was assessed
• A secure padlock was installed on the rear gate
Previously, the rear gate had been freely accessible. It provided a straightforward route into the garden and closer access to the house. Given her former partner’s familiarity with the property, this was a particular concern.
Installing a visible, secure padlock created both a physical barrier and an important deterrent.
“Having the padlock on the gate is great. He knew it all at my house, so it’s something he wouldn’t expect. Before, you could just walk through my back gate.”
Sarah was offered additional security options but felt the measures already taken were sufficient to meet her needs at that stage.
The changes themselves were simple, but the reassurance they provided was immediate.
Restoring peace of mind
For Sarah, the improvements made during the visit restored far more than just the physical security of her home. They restored peace of mind.
After the locks were changed:
• She no longer feared her former partner could enter the property without her knowledge
• Her anxiety levels began to ease
• She stopped repeatedly checking doors and windows
• She began sleeping more soundly
• She felt safer caring for her children in her own home
“Blue Lamp just made me feel so much safer in my home with simple lock changes. It is such peace of mind.”
This experience highlights an important safeguarding principle: even relatively simple security improvements can make a profound difference to someone’s wellbeing.
How the Blue Lamp Trust Safe Home service helps vulnerable residents
The Blue Lamp Trust Safe Home service provides free home safety visits for older and vulnerable residents throughout Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.
During every visit, the Trust’s trained, police-vetted Safety Technicians carry out a full home security and fire safety assessment, providing personalised advice and practical support.
Where appropriate, technicians can install security measures such as:
• Door and window locks
• Spyholes and door chains
• Long-life smoke alarms
• Carbon monoxide detectors
• Other approved safety equipment
Where suitable, the Trust can also supply and install additional security products for a fee, including:
• The police-approved Supra C500 Key Safe, helping carers or emergency services gain secure access when needed
• The Ring Battery Video Doorbell, providing additional reassurance and visibility at the front door
These home safety visits in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are designed to help residents feel safer and more confident in their homes.
Why home security support matters for domestic abuse survivors
Domestic abuse does not always end when a relationship ends.
Continued access to property, knowledge of security vulnerabilities, or fears of surveillance can leave individuals feeling exposed and vulnerable in their own homes.
Cases like Sarah’s demonstrate:
• The importance of strong police referral pathways
• The value of early intervention
• How physical security improvements can directly improve emotional wellbeing
• The impact of practical, face-to-face crime prevention support
For Sarah, the work carried out by the Blue Lamp Trust did not simply change locks. It restored a sense of safety, stability, and control during a deeply distressing period.
If you need support
If you or someone you know may benefit from a Safe Home visit, support is available.
The Blue Lamp Trust works closely with police, local authorities, and safeguarding partners to provide crime prevention support across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, helping people feel safer and more secure in their homes.
To learn more about the Blue Lamp Trust Safe Home service, or to make a referral for a home safety visit, please contact the team or visit the website.
Contact Safe Home
0300 777 0157
bluelamptrust.org.uk/safe-home
The simplest changes can make the greatest difference – restoring safety, confidence and peace of mind at home.
