Support

Domestic violence, also called domestic abuse, includes physical, emotional and sexual abuse in couple relationships or between family members.

It’s abuse if your partner or a family member:

• threatens you
• shoves or pushes you
• makes you fear for your physical safety
• puts you down, or attempts to undermine your self-esteem
• controls you, for example by stopping you seeing your friends and family
• is jealous and possessive, such as being suspicious of your friendships and conversations
• frightens you

Where can you get help?

You don’t have to wait for an emergency situation to seek help.

You can:

• talk to your doctor, health visitor or midwife
• women can call 0808 2000 247, the free 24-hour National Domestic Violence Helpline run in partnership between Women’s Aid and Refuge
• men can call the Men’s Advice Line free on 0808 801 0327 (Monday-Friday 9am-5pm) or ManKind on 01823 334 244
• in an emergency, call 999

The Survivor’s Handbook from the charity Women’s Aid is free and provides information for women on a wide range of issues such as housing, money, helping your children, and your legal rights.

Anyone who needs confidential help with their own abusive behaviour can contact Respect on their free helpline on 0808 802 4040.

And more information is also available online at the NHS website.