Next steps if you’re being controlled

Controlling behaviour is a crime, and you can report it to the police if it is happening to you.

We know this can feel like a big step. Here is what will happen if you do report it, and what you can do if you don’t feel ready.

Making a report

You don’t have to call us – you can make a report online. Always call 999 in an emergency.

Find out more about how to report domestic abuse, including when it’s not safe to talk.

We also have our Live Chat available 24/7 which you can access by clicking the speech bubble icon which appears on the lower right hand side of the screen.

When you report domestic abuse

If you are in danger now, we will get to you as soon as we can.

Speaking with an officer

An officer will speak to you, away from your partner. If you are in danger, they will work with you on a plan to keep you safe.

If it is lawful and necessary to do so, they will arrest the person you are reporting.

If it’s not an emergency, we might arrange a video call between you and a police officer first of all. This helps us make sure we speak with you as quickly as possible – but we’ll only do this if it is safe for you.

Keeping you safe

There are lots of ways to keep people safe when they report domestic abuse.

The police and the courts can issue different orders, to stop the person you are reporting from contacting you.

Some of these can be issued straight away. Some can also be used when there is not enough evidence to charge someone with an offence.

If they break the order, they could be arrested.

We’re also trying things like SmartWater to help people experiencing domestic abuse.

We can put you in touch with other organisations which are there to support you, too.

Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (Clare’s Law)

You can confidentially apply for information under the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme – also known as Clare’s Law.

You can request information about your partner, and the police will be able to tell you if they have information showing a previous history of violence or abuse.

You can make a request here.

Other support

Women’s Aid has helpful information about leaving an abusive relationship safely, or making a safety plan while you are in the relationship, which is relevant for women and men.

Find out more about leaving safely and safety plans here.

You can also access Derbyshire Victim Services and other support, even if you don’t want to report the abuse to the police.