Signal Safe is an interactive learning tool that combines video and storytelling. It was specifically developed for people who enter others’ homes in a professional or voluntary capacity – such as maintenance workers, financial guardians, or community sports coaches. Signal Safe trains them to recognise signs of domestic violence and child abuse, and to take appropriate steps when they suspect something is wrong.
Domestic violence and child abuse often go unnoticed. Not because people look away, but because they doubt themselves: Am I seeing this correctly? Can I speak up? And who do I turn to? Many engaged citizens and professionals – from financial guardians to maintenance workers and volunteers – find themselves in situations that don’t feel right, yet aren’t sure how to respond.
That’s why the Municipality of Opsterland initiated the development of a digital learning tool designed specifically for this target group. Signal Safe helps users distinguish between a gut feeling and a real warning sign, and offers insight into how and where to take action. For example: what exactly happens when you report a concern to a service like Safe at Home?
8D led the entire design and development process, from initial concepting and scripting to video production and technical implementation. Together with a group of experts, researchers and individuals with lived experience, we defined both the educational and emotional framework of the product through co-creative sessions.
Several key questions guided the process:
Using a visual canvas, we mapped out the learning goals and desired behavioural outcomes. This provided direction for the design process and transparency for all stakeholders.
Multiple creative concepts were explored, ultimately leading to the choice of an interactive video format: the user follows a realistic storyline, makes decisions along the way, and directly influences how the story unfolds. This format allows for emotional nuance and subtle signals to come through naturally – without the need for costly animation or complex systems.
The script was developed in multiple iterations, with regular feedback from the project team and people with lived experience. This ensured that the final product was not only effective and recognisable, but also handled the topic with care. After scripting, we moved into video production and interactive integration.
The result is an accessible, interactive learning tool that can be used on a laptop, either individually or in group settings. Players take on the role of a professional or volunteer visiting someone’s home. Along the way, they are presented with various signs of potential domestic violence – sometimes subtle, sometimes more direct – and must choose how to respond.
By the end of the experience, a set of test questions helps assess knowledge gained and the player’s sense of confidence in taking action. This gives insight into the tool’s effectiveness, both at individual and group level.
Signal Safe is suitable for use across multiple sectors and can be deployed as a stand-alone product or embedded within broader training programmes.
Launch and implementation
Signal Safe was officially launched on 21 November 2025, during the Week Against Child Abuse in Langezwaag. We are currently working with partners to support implementation, so that more municipalities and organisations can make use of the tool and receive clear guidance on how to integrate it into their practice.
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