Domestic abuse is the name which is most often used to describe violence from one partner towards another; usually it is the woman who suffers but in some cases it can be the man, child or elderly parent/relative.
It can include a range of ill treatment, mental and sexual abuse as well as physical assaults.
Statistics show that it takes 33 incidents of domestic violence before a victim reports the incident to the police, and with 17,000 reported incidents of domestic violence every year it shows the dramatic scale of the unreported offences.
Being prepared
If you are currently living with an abusive partner it is a good idea to be prepared in case you have to leave quickly. Here are some suggestions:
1. Establish the nearest contact point to your home e.g. friends, neighbours, telephone box.
2. Always carry a list of emergency telephone numbers and keep your benefit books with you.
3. Try to put some money aside for taxi, bus or train fares.
4. Always keep an extra set of keys for your house and car.
5. Keep keys, money and a set of clothes for yourself and children packed in a bag (perhaps at a friend's house).
A guide has been produced to support women who have been the victim of domestic violence, for those who are afraid to leave because of financial difficulties.
You can download this guide here as a PDF:
You can afford to leave|
How to get help
In an emergency, always dial 999.
If you wish to report an incident to the police and it's not an emergency situation, phone 101.
Explain to the operator what help you need, you can also ask to see a woman police officer if you feel that you would prefer her advice.
There are people who are willing to help and will treat your enquiry in the strictest confidence.
Helplines
You can also contact the 24/7 Derbyshire Domestic Abuse Helpline on 08000 198 668.
The National Domestic Violence Helpline can also be contacted on 0808 2000 247. This is run in partnership with Refuge and Women's Aid and is available 24 hours a day. There is also more information on the National Domestic Violence Helpline's website http://www.nationaldomesticviolencehelpline.org.uk/|
Young people
Abuse can happen in any relationship, whether you’re 35, 85 or 15. If you are worried about abuse in your relationship, talk to someone that you trust or visit www.ok.derbyshire.gov.uk/abuse| or www.thehideout.org.uk| for more information.
Violence against men
In 2011/12 almost 3,500 men contacted Derbyshire police as a victim of domestic abuse. If you are a man experiencing domestic abuse in Derbyshire there is help available – contact Derbyshire Support and Advice for Men (SAM) via 08000 198 668. The www.dvmen.co.uk| website also has a wealth of helpful information and ways to get advice for men in this situation.
Helping someone you know
Are you concerned about someone you know who is experiencing domestic abuse? The “Behind Closed Doors” campaign allows you to contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 to pass on your concerns.
Help for domestic violence offenders
The Respect freephone line is aimed at perpetrators of domestic violence, helping them to stop the violence and change their abusive behaviour. Call 0808 802 40 40 if you need help.
National Centre for Domestic Violence
The National Centre for Domestic Violence (NCDV) provides a free, fast emergency service to survivors of domestic violence regardless of their financial circumstances, race, gender or sexual orientation.
Thier service allows anyone to apply for an injunction within 24 hours of first contact (in most circumstances). They work in close partnership with the police, local firms of existing solicitors and other support agencies (Refuge, Women's Aid etc) to help survivors obtain speedy protection.
www.ncdv.org.uk|
Other sources of help and information
Asian Women's Projects
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Hadhari Nari
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01332 270101
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Karma Nirvana|
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01332 604098 / 299166
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Humari Manzil
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01322 270770
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Muslim Women's Helpline
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020 8904 8193
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Muslim Sisters Haven
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0800 0528714
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Asian Counselling Service
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020 8567 5616
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Forced Marriages
Health
Social Services
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Derby|
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01332 717118
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Derbyshire Children's Social Care
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08456 058 058
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Out of hours (Emergency Duty Team- EDT)
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01773 728222
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Child Services
Other Useful Numbers
Counselling
If you require additional help, the Counselling Directory| contains a large list of counsellors and psychotherapists who are available in your area to help you through your situation. This site contains details of each counsellor's expertise, their fees and contact details.
Visit the Counselling Directory website|.