Affected by Domestic Violence?

EXIT

  

If you are experiencing domestic violence, don’t suffer in silence.

For information, advice, support or emergency refuge accommodation call:

24 hour National Domestic Violence Helpline tel: 0800 2000 247.

In an emergency call 999.

Remember: You are not alone. Help is available.

You can get further information and help from any of the organisations listed under contacts on the left-hand menu. Or you can look at the more detailed guidance and directory. See below for document - Helping to Open the Door.

Are You Afraid Of Someone You Know Or Live With?

Domestic violence is a crime. Maybe you have experienced it just once or maybe you have lived with the abuse for some time. Or perhaps someone you live near, work with or know is experiencing domestic violence. 

These pages provide some information on the issues that may be of concern to you. Most survivors are women, but this guide will be useful whether you are a woman or a man who has experienced domestic violence. Everyone has the same rights under the law. 

Domestic violence is not usually physical violence alone, but a whole way of behaving which leaves you living in fear.

Physical abuse - hitting, punching, slapping, biting, burning, kicking etc

Emotional abuse - being verbally abused and humiliated, being put down in front of others, being kept away from family and friends, constant ridicule or criticism etc

Harassment - being watched, being followed, being pestered, unwanted phone calls/letters, being threatened etc

Sexual abuse - rape, indecent phone calls, forced vaginal or anal penetration, being forced to watch pornography, being spoken to in degrading ways etc

Financial abuse - being kept without money, having to account for expenditure, being forced to pay bills, having to hand over wages, benefits or pension payments etc