Keeping safe

Keeping safe

Domestic abuse: don't suffer in silence

Although we’re in a national lockdown, the government has made it clear that if you are experiencing or are at risk from domestic abuse, you can still leave your home.

Domestic abuse isn’t always physical violence, it can also include things like psychological, emotional, sexual, financial, honour-based violence, and forced marriage. It can also be controlling behaviour, such as isolating you from sources of support and telling you what to do, or coercive behaviour, which is a pattern of threats, humiliation and intimidation designed to harm, punish or frighten you.

Whatever form it takes, there is never an excuse for domestic abuse. If you’re affected by domestic abuse of any kind, we can help. We can:

  • Provide you with support around safety planning
  • Refer you to specialist services who can work with you around risk, legal, financial and emotional matters
  • Ensure you have access to independent professional translators if needed
  • Access perpetrator management programmes

We also provide a number of refuges at confidential locations across England if you need to access a safe space to stay.

If you’re experiencing domestic abuse and want to access one of our refuges or Safe Space please don’t suffer in silence - you can call us on 01793 602170. You can also find lots of information on the domestic abuse page on our website, including a list of other agencies providing support.

If you are in immediate danger, call 999.

Did you know..?

February is LGBT+ history month, which raises awareness of matters affecting the LGBT+ community and this year the campaign is focusing on body, mind and spirit.

We’re very proud of our dedicated Safe Space, which provides short-term accommodation and support for members of the LGBTQ+ community who have experienced domestic abuse, discrimination, hate crime or family breakdown. We accept referrals and self-referrals on a national basis for people aged 18 years and over.

You can find out more about our Safe Space, including how to refer yourself or someone you know, here. For urgent advice and support, you can also contact the National Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans + Domestic Abuse Helpline on freephone 0800 999 5428.

In an emergency, always call 999.