Getting Help for Domestic Violence

From: NHS Choices http://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/abuse/Pages/domestic-violence-help.aspx

Find out where to get help if you're experiencing domestic violence.

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)

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.

For forced marriage and "honour" crimes, contact Karma Nirvana (0800 5999 247) or The Forced
Marriage Unit (020 7008 0151).

Broken Rainbow UK provides support to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people experiencing
domestic violence.

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

If you decide to leave

The first step in escaping an abusive situation is realising that you're not alone and it's not your fault.
Before you go, try to get advice from an organisation such:

for women: Women's Aid or Refuge

for men: Men's Advice Line