Domestic Violence – Advice and Support

If you or anyone you know lives in fear from the threat of domestic violence please don’t hesitate to seek help. There has been an increase in the level of domestic violence during the lock down and often those suffering abuse feel they cannot leave or get to place of safety, perhaps because there are children in the home needing care or because they are unaware of the support that's available.

There is a lot of support and help on offer. The main Government site is here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-and-domestic-abuse/coronavirus-covid-19-support-for-victims-of-domestic-abuse

Refuge runs the National Domestic Abuse Helpline, which you can be called for free, and in confidence, 24 hours a day on 0808 2000 247. Its website provides guidance and support for potential victims, as well as those who are worried about friends and loved ones. It also has a form through which people can book a safe time for a return call.

The Men’s Advice Line is a confidential helpline for male victims of domestic abuse and those supporting them. They can be reached via 'phone at 0808 801 0327.

Galop runs the national LGBT+ domestic abuse helpline. They can be reached via freephone at 0800 999 5428 and can be emailed confidentially help@galop.org.uk

More locally, the Gaia Centre, offers wrap-around services to assist anyone who is experiencing violence and abuse at home  https://www.refuge.org.uk/our-work/our-services/one-stop-shop-services/the-gaia-centre/

If you are in a sitution of danger do not hesitate to call 999 - if you are unable to speak, stay silent and key 55 in to your 'phone.

How to make a silent 999 call

The Home Office has a system in place called Silent Solutions, which helps callers, such as domestic abuse victims, who cannot speak to an operator.

If you have not been able to signal that your call is an emergency by coughing after dialling 999, you will be put through to the operator.

If you are in danger, you will be asked to dial "55".