Abuse, Domestic Violence and Assault
Organisations that can help
- Find a sexual assault referral centre
- Rape Crisis centres
- Women's Aid: help for women and children
- Refuge: safe houses for women
- Rights of Women: free legal advice
- Karma Nirvana: for those forced into marriage
- Survivors UK: for men who've been raped or abused
- Men's Advice Line: support for male victims
- ManKind: for male victims of domestic violence
- ChildLine: help for children and young people
- National Centre for Domestic Violence
- Victim Support
Cover your tracks
Advice for victims of abuse, domestic violence or stalking
The internet is an ideal way to search for information and support anonymously, but unfortunately it is possible for others to track what you've been viewing online.
There is no way to completely disguise your movements online. However, to cover your tracks, you could use a computer at a local library, an internet cafe, a friend's house or at work, instead of your home computer.
For more advice, you could also read the following:
- Cover your tracks online – advice from Woman’s Aid
- Internet safety for survivors of domestic violence – advice from Bracknell Forest Council
While you are online
If you’re worried someone might come into the room and you don’t want them to see what you’re looking at, you could open another browser window or document and keep it open behind the site you’re looking at. This way, if you need to close a window quickly, you’re not left looking at a blank screen.
Deleting cookies and address histories
Be aware that removing data from your computer might be noticed by the person you want to cover your tracks from. If you share your computer with others, then clearing your cookies means information saved, such as passwords for online banking, will disappear. Because their passwords will no longer be saved, the people you share your computer with may realise that you've removed data. They may also notice if the address history on the PC has been cleared, which may arouse suspicion.
Clear internet history after visiting a website
When you browse the internet, information about the sites you visit is stored in the internet browser you use on your computer. To minimise the chances of someone finding out you’ve visited a particular website, clear your internet history. However, be aware there may be other ways for someone to work out which sites you’ve visited.
Private browsing
Most browsers also offer the option of "private" or "incognito" browsing. This prevents pages you view being stored in your browser’s history, cookie store, or search history after you’ve closed all your "private" tabs. However, any bookmarks you create or files you download will be kept. Your internet service provider, (if you are at work, your employer) can still see your browsing history.
Source: http://www.nhs.uk/NHSEngland/digital-inclusion/Pages/be-safe-online.aspx
Women's Aid-it is not just for women
Useful tools in understanding and dealing with difficult situations
Recently I had the honour of meeting a victim of domestic violence who had overcome her ordeal and has gone on to work for Women's Aid.Unfortunately, all too often, I come accross victims of domestic abuse who are unaware that their partner's behaviour is unacceptable and abusive. This applies to both men and women. Abuse is on the rise and although, often it does not start with violence, all too often, it ends that way. It is not acceptable to use violence ever but it is also not OK to try and control a partner. The following questions may help you to work out whether you are in a healthy relationship or one that is toxic and destructive.
Am I in an abusive relationship?
Everyone has arguments, and everyone disagrees with their partners, family members and others close to them from time to time. And we all do things at times that we regret, and which cause unhappiness to those we care about. But if this begins to form a consistent pattern, then it is an indication of domestic violence and abuse.
The answers to the following questions may help you:
Has your partner tried to keep you from seeing your friends or family?
Yes No
Has your partner prevented you or made it hard for you to continue or start studying, or from going to work?
Yes No
Does your partner constantly check up on you or follow you?
Yes No
Does your partner unjustly accuse you of flirting or of having affairs with others?
Yes No
Does your partner constantly belittle or humiliate you, or regularly criticise or insult you?
Yes No
Are you ever afraid of your partner?
Yes No
Have you ever changed your behaviour because you are afraid of what your partner might do or say to you?
Yes No
Has your partner ever destroyed any of your possessions deliberately?
Yes No
Has your partner ever hurt or threatened you or your children?
Yes No
Has your partner ever kept you short of money so you are unable to buy food and other necessary items for yourself and your children or made you take out loans?
Yes No
Has your partner ever forced you to do something that you really did not want to do?
Yes No
Has your partner ever tried to prevent you from taking necessary medication, or seeking medical help when you felt you needed it?
Yes No
Has your partner ever tried to control you by telling you that you could be deported because of your immigration status?
Yes No
Has your partner ever threatened to take your children away, or said he would refuse to let you take them with you, or even to see them, if you left him?
Yes No
Has your partner ever forced or harassed you to have sex with him or with other people? Has he made you participate in sexual activities that you were uncomfortable with?
Yes No
Has your partner ever tried to prevent your leaving the house?
Yes No
Does your partner blame his use of alcohol or drugs, mental health condition or family history for his behaviour?
Yes No
Does your partner control your use of alcohol or drugs (for example, by forcing your intake or by withholding substances)?
Yes No
If you answered yes to one or more of the above questions, this indicates that you may be experiencing domestic abuse.
You may want to call the National Domestic Violence Helpline (run in partnership between Women’s Aid and Refuge) to discuss this further in confidence, or chat about it anonymously on the Survivors’ forum.
Tel: 0808 2000 247 Freephone 24hr National Domestic Violence Helpline
Please visit https://www.womensaid.org.uk/information-support/
This website has links to other sites:
Alcohol and drugs
Al-anon – Al-Anon provides support to anyone affected by someone else’s drinking
Alcohol Concern – National agency on alcohol misuse
Drugscope – The UK’s leading independent centre of expertise on drugs
Fast Forward – Information on drugs and alcohol education for youth
FRANK – Information, support and counselling for drug users and their families
NACOA – National Association for Children of Alcoholics
Release – A range of specialist services for professionals and the public concerning drugs and the law
She’s in Recovery – Online community for women in recovery from addiction
If you have a link that you feel we should add to this page, please contact us.
Black and minority ethnic women
Please note that these links are for organisations offering services nationwide (such as helplines), or for those with extensive online information/research. For local domestic violence services please use the Domestic Abuse Directory
Domestic abuse specific
Southall Black Sisters
Domestic violence resource centre for Asian, African, Afro-Caribbean women
Hot Peach Pages
Hot Peach Pages has a directory of domestic abuse agencies world-wide
Chinese
Chinese Information
and Advice Centre
Provides support and information for Chinese people living in the UK. Also runs Sunflower Support Programme for children and teenagers affected by domestic violence.
Eastern European
East European Advice Centre
Advice service for Eastern Europeans. Offers English, Polish, and Russian languages, but works with most Eastern European nationals. Tel: 020 8741 1288 or email:info@eeac.org.uk.
Jewish
Jewish Women’s Aid
Provides refuge and/or support to Jewish women and their children affected by domestic abuse.
Muslim
Muslim Community Helpline
Telephone counselling service for Muslim men and women
Nour
Domestic Violence
Provides Islamic support and advice and raises awareness
Latin American
Latin American Women’s Aid
Provides nationally
available services and the only refuge for Latin American women in the UK
General
Refugee Council
Services for refugees and asylum seekers; including children’s
services, integration services and information on voluntary returns.
If you have a link that you feel we should add to this page, please contact us.
Children
Domestic abuse specific
The Hideout
Website created by Women’s
Aid giving support to children and young people affected by domestic abuse
General
The Child Law Advice Line (CLAL)
Freephone advice line for parents,
carers, children and young people on a wide range of legal issues
NSPCC
National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children is the UK’s leading charity specialising in child
protection
National Youth Advocacy Service
Information and advocacy service for children and young people up to 24 years.
Info for Professionals working with Children
Women’s Aid Expect Respect Education Toolkit
Consists of easy to use ‘Core’ lessons for each
year group from reception to year 13 and is based on themes that have been found to be effective in tackling domestic abuse
Leeds Animation
Specialists in animated films for adults
and children on social issues including domestic violence, bullying, grief and gender inequality
Migrant Children’s Project (MCP)
Aims to
ensure that migrant, asylum-seeking and refugee children in the UK are able to obtain the services, support and assistance to which they are legally entitled. The advice line provides advice to frontline professionals, carers, advocates and young
people
If you have a link that you feel would be appropriate on this page, please contact us
Disability
Specific to domestic abuse
Beverley Lewis House
A unique place to live for women with learning disabilities who
have suffered from abuse or who are at risk of abuse.
Respond
Challenging vulnerability and sexual abuse in the lives of people with learning disabilities
Citizen’s Advice
Videos on domestic abuse in British Sign Language
General
British
Council of Disabled People
Promote full equality and participation of disabled people in UK society
Disability
Rights UK
Disabled people leading change, working to create a society where everyone with lived experience of disability or health conditions can participate equally as full citizens.
Special Needs Family Fun Special needs resources to enhance the fun and quality of family life for families with disabilities
Being the Boss Website addresses the lack of peer support available to disabled people who employ our own Personal Assistants (PAs)
If you have a link that you feel we should add to this page, please contact us.
Elder Abuse
Action on Elder Abuse
Charity that aims to prevent abuse in old age
Age UK
The new name for the merged charities Help the Aged
and Age Concern. Info and advice for the general public, including factsheets about elder abuse and where to get help.
If you have a link that you feel we should add to this page, please contact us.
Families and parenting
General
The Child Law Advice Line (CLAL)
freephone advice line for parents, carers, children and young people on a wide range of legal
issues
Familyonwards.com
Jill Curtis ‘helpsite’ for parents and grandparents
Confidential advice to families whose children are involved with Social Services
Adfam
Charity supporting for families affected by drugs and alcohol
Home-Start
A national network of groups offering emotional and practical support by trained volunteers to families with at least one child under the age of five years.
Parentline Plus
charity supporting parents under stress and refers to sources of local support
Special Needs Family Fun
Special needs resources for families with disabilities
Keep Your Kids Safe
Info for parents on how to protect their kids online
ERIC, the children’s continence charity
Bedwetting advice for professionals, parents, children and teenagers
AADFA
Advocacy After Fatal Domestic Abuse. Charity
offering help to families after fatal domestic abuse (homicide or suicide) and near misses.
Lone Parenting
Gingerbread
Promotes the welfare of lone parents
and their children
One Space
An organisation working to improve the lives of one parent families in the UK and Europe. Find advice and information on all aspects of parenting alone,
a lively online community supported by experienced single parenting specialists; low cost or free events for you and your family, plus online learning courses, including Assertiveness, Ways into Work and much more!
Single Parents UK
Advice and first-hand experience to help parents manage and enjoy life as a single parent.
Support for mums
Mumsnet
A website
where parents and parents-to-be can share their know-how, with the aim of making parents’ lives easier by pooling knowledge, experience and support.
MAMA
Meet a Mum Association provide
friendship and support to mothers and mothers-to-be
Match Mothers
Mothers Away From Their Children
Netmums
Local
network for mums with a wealth of information on being a mum or dad in your home town.
Horsesmouth
Mentoring site where users can give and receive confidential
advice.
Abduction
Reunite
Advice and support for parents whose children have been abducted, or if they fear abduction by a former partner.
If you have a link that you feel would be appropriate on this page, please contact us.
Female genital mutilation (FGM)
World Heath Organisation (WHO)
Factsheet about FGM.
FORWARD UK
Information about FGM including where it is practiced and what the consequences are.
UNICEF
Basic information about
FGM and what it is practiced.
If you have a link that you feel we should add to this page, please contact us.
Forced marriage
Honour Network Helpline – 0800 5999 247.
Open 9:30am –
5pm, Monday – Friday
Provided by charity, Karma Nirvana
Ashiana Project
London
020
8539 0427
Email: info@ashiana.org.uk
Ashiana Sheffield
0114 255 5740 (24hour helpline)
Email:
info@ashianasheffield.org
Asian Women’s Resource Centre
London
020 8961 6549
CHOICE Helpline
Northumbria, Cleveland and Durham Police helpline
0800 5 999 365
Freedom Charity
0845 607 0133
Iranian and Kurdish Women’s Rights Organisation (IKWRO)
0207 920 6460
Southall Black Sisters
London
General Enquiries: 020 8571 9595
Helpline: 020 8571 0800
If you have a link that you feel we should add to this page, please contact us.
UK government info on domestic violence
Home Office
Violence against women and domestic violence page
Community legal service
Free government-funded confidential advice service
Crown Prosecution Service, Handles the prosecution of most domestic violence cases in the UK
Women’s National Commission
The official, independent, advisory body
giving the views of women to the Government
House of Commons and House of Lords
Access via search page to Hansard archives of debates in Parliament, etc.
If you have a link that you feel would be appropriate on this page, please contact us.
Housing
Claiming homelessness – Under current law you can approach any Homeless Persons Unit if it is unsafe for you to remain in your home due to domestic violence. The Council is obliged to offer you temporary accommodation while they carry out their assessment or give you a decision on your application on the day. Housing law states that, ‘It is not reasonable for a person to continue to occupy accommodation if it is probable that this will lead to domestic violence or other violence’. Violence means violence or threats of violence from another person, which are likely to be carried out.
Rights of Women Guide to Domestic Violence and Homelessness
This guide sets out your housing rights if you are experiencing domestic violence and are currently living with your abuser. It also looks at the legal options
which are available if you can no longer stay in your home and need to find somewhere else to live.
Housing Rights Information England and Wales
If you have arrived in
the UK to join a partner who is settled here, but have to leave your home because you fear or have experienced violence from your partner, this information applies to you.
Shelter Homelessness due to domestic violence
If you have to leave your home because of threats, abuse or intimidation, there may be safe places you can go to, such as refuges and temporary housing from the council. It
may also be possible to stay in your home and make it safer.
St Mungo’s
St Mungo’s offers confidential support and advice to those at risk of becoming homeless.
Shelter
The UK’s largest housing charity, gives information on housing rights, homelessness and state benefits.
www.citizensadvice.org.uk
Your local
Citizens’ Advice Bureau (CAB) provides free, confidential and independent advice, including advice on housing. The website has information in Welsh, Bengali, Chinese, Gujarati, Punjabi and Urdu, as well as English, and allows you to locate your nearest
CAB.
www.stonewallhousing.org
Provides housing advice to LGBT victim/survivors of domestic abuse across London
Support for homeless
Homeless UK
Homeless UK has information on over 8,000 services that can help homeless people and those at risk of homelessness.
Homelessness Act 2002
Shelter’s
Homelessness Act web site.
Fieldlane
Charity that works with families that are homeless in London.
If you have a link that you feel would be appropriate on this page, please contact us.
Immigration issues
Asylum
Aid
Charity working to help those in need of asylum.
British Red Cross
Provides practical and emotional support for refugees and asylum seekers
Electronic Immigration Network
Links and advice on immigration issues.
Immigration and Work Permits Worldwide
One of the oldest and largest UK immigration
consultancy firms.
Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants
Advice, publications, lobbying, courses, etc.
Life
in the UK Test
Official Home Office site helping you to prepare for the Life in the UK Test that is required for settlement (indefinite leave to remain) in the UK or British citizenship
Community
Legal Service
For details of Legal Aid solicitors, Citizens Advice Bureaux, law centres and independent advice centres. They can provide details of specialists in immigration law and/or family law. Tel: 0845 345 4345.
Immigration Law Practitioners Association (ILPA)
Established to promote and improve the advising and representation of immigrants. Tel: 0207 251 8383 or email info@ilpa.org.uk.
Law Centres Federation
Free and independent legal service to people who live or work in their catchment areas. They specialise in those areas of law including welfare rights, immigration and nationality, employment rights and sex and
race discrimination. Websites provides details of local law centres. Tel: 0207 387 8570 or email: info@lawcentres.org.uk.
Law Society
For details
of solicitors legal aid cannot be accessed. They can put you in touch with solicitors in your local area. You can also search their website for specialists in immigration law and/or family law. Tel: 0870 606 6575.
Immigration and Nationality Directorate
IND is the government department responsible for immigration. Tel: 0870 606 7766 or email: indpublicenquiries@ind.homeoffice.gsi.gov.uk.
Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC),
Responsible for ensuring that all immigration advisers fulfil the requirements of good practice. There is a list of registered immigration advisers
on the website. Tel: 0845 000 0046 (helpline).
Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants (JCWI),
Independent voluntary organisation for justice and combating racism in immigration and
asylum law and policy. They provide free advice and casework, training courses and a range of publications.
Tel: 020 7251 8706 (Helpline – Tues and Thurs, 2pm-5pm)
or 020 7251 8708.
Email: info@jcwi.org.uk.
National Coalition of Anti-Deportation Campaigns
Voluntary organisation providing practical help and advice to people facing deportation. They provide a network for campaigns throughout the country
allowing them to support each other.
Tel: 0121 554 6947 or email: ncadc@ncadc.org.uk.
Southall Black Sisters,
SBS provides information, advice, advocacy, practical help, counselling, help and a referral service on a wide range of issues including domestic violence, immigration/asylum, housing and homelessness and matrimonial rights.
Tel: 020 8571 9595 or email: southallblacksisters@btconnect.com.
REFUGEES & ASYLUM SEEKERS
Refugee Access,
multilingual site for asylum seekers, refugees and agencies working with them in the Yorkshire and Humberside area.
Refugee Action, independent national charity that works with refugees to build new lives in the UK.
The Refugee Council, national body working for refugee rights.
UKLGIG, UK Lesbian & Gay Immigration Group (formerly the Stonewall Immigration Group): immigration rights for same sex couples and asylum seekers.
If you have a link that you feel we should add to this page, please contact us.
International organisations
The organisations listed here are just a few of many outside England that provide support and information for women around the world.
Feminist Majority Foundation – A feminist internet gateway
Hot Peach Pages – Hot Peach Pages has a directory of domestic abuse agencies world-wide
MINCAVA – Minnesota Centre Against Violence and Abuse
National Collective of Independent Women’s Refuges, New Zealand – National organisation in New Zealand for 50 refuges around the country
NCADV – US National Coalition Against Domestic Violence
Texas Council on Family Violence – Works to end violence against women through partnerships, advocacy and direct services
UN CEDAW – United Nations Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women
WAVE – Women Against Violence Europe
Women’s Aid Organisation Malaysia – Organisation in Malaysia working to end violence against women
Hurt project – Online documentary showing videos of men, women and young people talking about domestic abuse. Based in Australia.
If you have a link that you feel we should add to this page, please contact us.
Legal advice
General
Rights of Women
Rights of Women is committed to informing, educating and empowering women on the law and their legal rights. They run a free telephone legal advice line for women including a sexual
violence legal advice line. They produce publications – including ones on domestic violence and the law, child contact, and for those who have experienced rape or sexual assault. ‘From Report to Court’ can be downloaded free from the website and is available in a number of languages.
National Centre
for Domestic Violence
The NCDV can help you obtain an injunction to prevent further abuse from your partner. The services are free of charge, and the centre will refer you to an experienced solicitor who, if you are eligible, will arrange Community
Legal Service funding, or will accept payments in stages if you have to pay your own fees.
The Association of Child Abuse Lawyers (ACAL)
Provides practical support for survivors and
professionals working in the field of abuse. ACAL maintains a telephone help line and web site presence to sign-post survivors of abuse to lawyers who have the expertise and experience to assist them in obtaining the redress to which they are entitled.
Advicenow
Brings together information on the law and rights from a wide range of advice and information services
Citizen’s
Advice Bureau
Children’s Legal Centre
law and policy affecting children and young people
Community
Legal Services
Provides information on legal advisors who have their quality mark, and gives advice on eligibility for CLS-funded services (civil legal aid). The CLS is part of the Legal Services Commission
Law On The Web
Legal services
The Law Society
Provides a list of solicitors in your area
Legal
Services Commission
Administers the CLS and the Criminal Defence Service (replacing Legal Aid 2001)
Rape Crisis
Map and contact list of UK member groups: information, help,
child abuse, legal procedures
UK Deed Poll
Information on how to change your name
Family Rights Group
advise parents whose
children are involved with children’s social care services.
Divorce
Divorce Aid
independent group of professionals
Divorce Online
professional site for divorce and separation issues
On Divorce
Independent, non-commercial site providing help and information for those
going through divorce
Divorce Resource
lots of information about various aspects of divorce
Divorce Recovery Workshop
self help groups for people going through divorce
Inside Divorce
legal advice, help and support for divorce and marriage problems
Sharing Pensions
Site with free, independent advice on pensions after UK divorce
Wikivorce
– divorce support community
Provides free information, support and advice to anyone going through divorce or separation.
Black and Minority Ethnic Groups
Southall
Black Sisters
Provides advice and information on domestic violence, racial harassment, welfare and immigration, primarily for Asian, African and African-Caribbean women. Casework primarily undertaken in London Borough of Ealing, but deals with enquiries
on a national basis.
Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants
Advice, publications, lobbying, courses, etc.
If you
have a link that you feel we should add to this page, please contact us.
Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender
Broken Rainbow
The National Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans (LGBT) Domestic Violence Helpline (0300
999 5428 or call their freephone number on: 0800 999 5428) provides confidential support to all members of the LGBT communities, their family, friends, and agencies supporting them. The helpline is run by trained LGBT people
and provides a space where you can talk through what is going on, and explore your options. They can:
- provide confidential information, advice and support
- help you create your safety plan
- explore options around housing, legal advice, counselling and local support groups
- tell you about your local LGBT friendly services
- discuss the possibility of reporting to the Police
Opening times:
10am – 8pm Monday
10am
– 5pm Tuesday
10am – 5pm Wednesday
10am – 8pm Thursday
1pm – 5pm Friday
1pm-5pm Tuesday is a trans specific service
0300 numbers are billed as 01 and 02 landline numbers and are usually included in contract and package minutes, 0800 numbers are free from landlines and include in some mobile provider inclusive minutes.
London Lesbian and Gay Switchboard
Information, support and referral service
for lesbians, gay men and bisexual people.
Another Closet
Australian website which provides information about domestic violence within gay or lesbian relationship.
If you have a link that you feel we should add to this page, please contact us
Support for male survivors of abuse
Survivors UK,
Help for men who have been sexually abused or raped
Men’s Advice Line
Provides a range of services aimed primarily at men experiencing domestic abuse from their partner.
Supportline
Provides emotional support and details of counsellors and agencies throughout the UK. Their helpline number is 0208 554 9004 and their email address is info@supportline.org.uk.
Are You Hurting the one You Love?
Booklet on male violence
in gay and bisexual relationships
MASH for men who have been sexually abused
0117 907 7100: Thursday 7 – 9 p.m.
Telephone counselling service for men who have been raped or sexually abused at any time in their lives. Both male and female counsellors available.
If you have information which may be useful on this page, please contact us.
Mental Health
General
Rethink
The largest severe mental illness charity in the UK
Sane
One of the UK’s leading charities
concerned with improving the lives of everyone affected by mental illness
Mind
Information and support on mental health issues, including how to get help.
BPD World,
Committed to raising awareness and reducing the stigma of mental ill health.
Personality Disorder
The National Personality Disorder Website
UK & Ireland Counselling & Psychotherapy Directory
AADFA
Advocacy After Fatal Domestic Abuse. Charity
offering help to families after fatal domestic abuse (homicide or suicide) and near misses
Working Chance
Charity working with any woman who has been through the criminal justice system,
helping them into work and financial independence
Self Harm
National Self Harm Network
A forum for survivors, professionals and family
Eating disorders
Anorexia Bulimia Care
ABC provides personal advice and support to anyone affected by anorexia, bulimia, binge eating and all kinds of eating distress.
BulimiaHelp.org
Providing online interactive tools, advice and support to aid recovery from Bulimia
b-eat
Beat provides helplines, online support and a network
of UK-wide self-help groups to help adults and young people in the UK beat their eating disorders. If you have a link that you feel would be appropriate on this page, please contact
us.
Money issues
Specialist debt advice for women who have been referred by a refuge or domestic violence service
Provides welfare rights support to community groups & advice centres
National Debtline
Offers information and advice on debt. Their website has an information pack, a personal budget section, factsheets, and
debt advice. They have access to Language Line.
Debt Advice Foundation
Charity offering free, confidential support and advice to anyone worried about debt.
Department for work and pensions
Provides information on all state benefits, alphabetically, with links to the Job Centre Plus when appropriate. You can
download information leaflets and claim forms from the website.
Citizens’ Advice Bureau: Advice Guide
Online advice guide to benefits, including a section on benefits relating
to domestic violence.
Advice Now
Provides information on a number of areas, including benefits, housing, employment, living together and separating. They provide leaflets to download,
and link to a wide variety of other useful websites.
OneSpace
Includes information on welfare benefits, childcare, the pros and cons of paid work versus voluntary work, full-time parenting
or going back into education.
Perpetrator programmes
Domestic Violence Intervention Project, Provides a violence prevention programme for men and a woman’s support service for their partners and ex-partners
Respect is a registered charity and national membership organisation promoting best practice for domestic violence perpetrator programmes and associated support services in the UK.
Supportline provides emotional support and details of counsellors and agencies throughout the UK. Their helpline number is 0208 554 9004 and their email address is info@supportline.org.uk.
Pet fostering
SPECIFICALLY FOR INDIVIDUALS EXPERIENCING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
View the Links Group leaflet on Pet fostering services for families escaping domestic violence
Dogs Trust Freedom Project Greater London
Area covered: Greater London
Tel: 0800 298 9199.
Dogs Trust Freedom
Project, Yorkshire
Area covered: Yorkshire
Tel: 0800 083 4322.
Paws for Kids
Area covered: Cheshire, Greater Manchester, Lancashire and Merseyside
Tel/Fax: 01204 698 999
Email: info@pawsforkids.org.uk
The Raystede Centre for Animal Welfare
Area covered: Kent and Sussex
Tel: 01825 880478
Email:
petfostering@raystede.org
Pads and Paws
Area covered: East Northamptonshire
01832 742257
Email: padsandpaws@east-northamptonshire.gov.uk
Pet Retreat, RSPCA Regional Headquarters
Areas covered: Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, Avon, Dorset, Wiltshire, Hampshire,
Berkshire, Surrey and Isle of Wight.
Tel: 07715 540182
Email: petretreat@rspca.org.uk
Pet Retreat, RSPCA
Areas covered: Leicestershire, Rutland and South Lincolnshire.
Tel: 07910 721797
Email: petretreat@southwitham.com
Pet fostering, Central & North East London
Tel: 020
8805 6330
Email: animals@rspcacentrallondon.org.uk
Mayhew Animal Centre
Area covered: within the M25
Pet Refuge
scheme that may be able to help care for your animal if you find yourself unable to for a limited period of time. With the exception of genuine emergencies, two weeks notice must be given before the pet needs to be cared for.
GENERAL PET FOSTERING
Animal Samaritans Foster carers are available to provide temporary care until a suitable, permanent home can be found. (south-east London and north-west Kent)
The Cinnamon Trust provides short term care for animals belonging to elderly pet owners who are going into hospital or moving to residential accommodation where they are unable to take their pets. The Trust also provides long term care for pets whose owners have died and for terminally ill pet owners.
INFO FOR PROFESSIONALS WORKING WITH INDIVIDUALS EXPERIENCING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
The Links Group is a multi-agency interest group that promotes the welfare and safety of vulnerable children, animals and adults so that they are free from violence and abuse. Members comprise of leading associations and charitable organisations. As part of The Links Group, some charities offer pet fostering services specifically for pets belonging to women fleeing from domestic violence.
Please contact us if you have information which may be suitable for this page.
Police
find the police force covering your area.Police guidelines for investigating domestic abuse
PDF document produced on behalf of the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) by the National Police Improving Agency.
The Victim Support Witness Service will support you if you go to court, including giving you information about the court and prosecution process. If you want, they will sit with you in the waiting room and when you are called to give evidence.
Domestic violence publishers & resources
BOOKS & PUBLICATIONS
Joseph Rowntree Foundation, Research organisation and publishers of social
studies
News From Nowhere, Liverpool’s independent, not-for-profit radical & community bookshop, run by a small collective of women workers
Sage Publications Inc, International publishers of books and journals on interpersonal violence
Policy Press, Publishers of socially related resources, journal, etc
Community Care, Online copy of magazine with archives
RESEARCH ORGANISATIONS
Joseph Rowntree Foundation Research organisation and publishers of social studies
If you have a link that you feel we should add to this page, please contact us.
Refuge services
Women’s Aid websites in the UK and Ireland
Scottish
Women’s Aid
Welsh Women’s Aid
Women’s Aid Republic of Ireland
Women’s Aid Federation Northern Ireland
Your local domestic violence service
Find your local domestic violence service on our Domestic Abuse Directory
Relative abuse
Parentline Plus, offers help and support for parents.
If you have a link that you feel we should add to this page, please contact us
Organisations supporting survivors of sexual violence
Rape Crisis: map and contact list of UK member groups: information, help, child abuse, legal procedures
RASASC: Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre
Respond: challenging vulnerability and sexual abuse in the lives of people with learning disabilities
Stalking
Paladin – Paladin assists high risk victims of stalking throughout England and Wales. A number of Independent Stalking Advocacy Caseworkers (ISACs) ensure high risk victims of stalking are supported and that a coordinated community response is developed locally to keep victims and their children safe.
Network for Surviving Stalking (NSS) – charity dedicated to providing help, support and information for those affected by stalking and harassment.
The Suzy Lamplugh Trust – provides practical support and personal safety guidance to reduce fear of crime and develops skills and strategies for keeping safe.
The National Stalking Clinic – a specialist service for the assessment and treatment of stalkers and their victims. Provides a mobile service across the UK to interested parties including the courts, Probation Service, Police, mental health trusts and Social Services.
Victim Support – helps people to cope with the effects of crime.
BBC Inside Out – basic guide to help people who are being stalked.
Alert5 – Rapid alert service via your mobile phone.
CYBERSTALKING & ONLINE SAFETY
Digital Stalking: a guide to technology risks for victims – a guide launched in 2012 by Women’s Aid and the Network for Surviving Stalking.
Chatdanger – website detailing the potential dangers of interactive services such as IM, email and online games etc.
BBC Webwise – information on how to keep your family safe online.
WiredSafety – gives information about the laws regarding cyberstalking and harassment.
If you have a link that you feel we should add to this page, please contact us.
GENERAL
Hidden Hurt – Domestic abuse site with information and support
National Association for People Abused in Childhood – Charity providing information and advice to adults who suffered abuse and/or neglect in childhood
Mens Advice Line – advice and support for men in abusive relationships
Cocoon Counselling – Online counselling service
Counselling Directory – A free and confidential way to search for a counsellor or more info on various types of abuse.
Couples Counselling Network – A
national network of qualified counsellors experienced in couples counselling
Womankind – Bristol women’s therapy centre
Women’s Therapy Centre – Psychotherapy by women, for women
Hypnotherapy Directory – Lists qualified hypnotherapists across the UK
Supportline – Offer confidential emotional support to children, young adults and adults by telephone, email and post
AADFA – Advocacy After Fatal Domestic Abuse. Charity offering help to families after fatal domestic abuse (homicide or suicide) and near misses
One Space – parenting site for single parents. Online groups, supported by experienced domestic abuse and parenting support workers, where single parents share solutions, challenges, joys and fears.
Horsesmouth – mentoring site where users can give and receive confidential advice.
LOCATION SPECIFIC
Hammersmith & Fulham – Advance Advocacy Project, support and advice to survivors of domestic violence
Hull – Purple House , women’s centre provides a safe space run and offers services including a nursery, sexual health information and domestic violence support.
Lambeth – Lambeth Victim Support, Victim Support for the Lambeth area
Aylesbury – Loves Me Not, Aylesbury Domestic Violence Forum Website
Hammersmith & Fulham – Standing Together, organisation that coordinate a multi-agency partnership response to domestic violence in the borough of Hammersmith and Fulham. (Not a front-line service)
London – Women and Girls’ Network , charity providing support and counselling to women and girls who have experienced violence, including child sexual abuse, sexual assault, assault and domestic violence
Network for Surviving Stalking, National Registered Charity devoted to providing support to people affected by stalking
If you have a link that you feel we should add to this page, please contact
us.
Trafficking
Anti-Slavery, UK based charity which works exclusively to end slavery and related abuse.
The Truth Isn’t Sexy, campaign which aims to expose the truth between human trafficking and prostitution.
POPPY Project, provides support and housing to women who have been trafficked into prostitution.
UnseenUK: Provides female survivors of trafficking with places of safety and aftercare programmes of support.
HERA – helps formerly trafficked women regain economic independence through entrepreneurship programmes
TRAFFICKING OF CHILDREN
ECPAT UK, children’s rights organisation campaigning against the commercial sexual exploitation of children in the UK.
If you have a link that you feel we should add to this page, please contact us.
Women’s campaigning groups
Association of Women’s Rights in Development – Provides comprehensive information and analysis on women’s human rights and global issues
Fawcett Society – Fawcett works for change on issues at the heart of women’s daily experience
Feminist.com – Activism, health, links to other sites
The Feminist Majority Foundation Online – Sections on women’s health, global feminism, reproductive rights, and more
National Union of Students – Students site campaigning on liberation issues
Object – Challenges the portrayal of women as sexual objects
Rights Of Women – Empowering women to access their legal rights
Sisterhood is Global Institute – Non-profit organisation promoting women’s rights through human rights projects – advocacy programmes, etc.
The Suzy Lamplugh Trust – The Suzy Lamplugh Trust, a registered charity, is the leading authority on personal safety
United Nations Women – the UN organization dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women
Women In Prison – A campaigning organisation providing support for women in prison
Women’s National Commission – The official, independent, advisory body giving the views of women to the Government
Zero Tolerance – Edinburgh-based charity campaigning for the prevention of male violence against women.
Global Coalition on Women and Aids – advocates for improved AIDS programming for women and girls.
Young people
Bursting the Bubble – Website for teenagers living with family violence.
National Youth Advocacy Service – Information and advocacy service for children and young people up to 24 years.
Fast Forward – Information on drugs and alcohol education for youth.
The Hideout – Women’s Aid website for children and young people living with domestic violence.
Respect Not Fear – Website for young people about healthy relationships, with games and activities.
The Site – Support and guidance for young people throughout life.
Young Minds – mental health charity for young people.
What is it? What can you do about it?
A relationship should be an EQUAL PARTNERSHIP and it should be rewarding. You do not have to put up with anything less.
Domestic abuse is more than just physical. It can be sexual, verbal, emotional and financial. You should never be made to feel intimidated or controlled. If you are in an abusive relationship, please get help. The following agencies may be able to help.
Childline: A service for young people under the age of 19 who may have a problem or worry.
Tel: 0800 11 11
Website: http://www.childline.org.uk
NSPCC: A service for anyone concerned about a child or young person
Tel: 0800 800 5000
Website: http://www.nspcc.org.uk
Samaritans:
Tel: 08457 90 90 90
Website: http://www.samaritans.co.uk
Bexley Woman's Aid:
Information, support ands accomodation for women, children and young people experiencing domestic abuse.
Tel: 0208 301 1536
Website: http://www.bexleywomansaid.org.uk
Also http://www.hidout.org.uk This is a website for young people about how to keep safe from abuse.
The Freephone 24 hour National Domestic Violence Helpline:
Tel: 0808 2000 247
The TRYangle Project:
A violence intervention programme for perpetrators of domestic abuse and a woman's support service for the (ex)partner/perpetrator
Tel: 0208 855 7564 and 0208 854 6906
Website: Http://www.tryangle.org.uk
Broken Rainbow:
Helpline for people in same sex relationships.
Tel: 0300 99 5428
Wesbsite: http://www.broken-rainbow.org.uk
Men's Aid:
Supports men experiecning domestic abuse.
te: 0871 223 9986
Website: http://www.mensadviceline.org.uk
Metro Centre:
Offers support to LGBT people
Tel: 0208 305 500
Website: http://www.metrocentreonline.org.uk
Respect Phone line:
Information for Men who are violent to their partners
Tel: 0845 122 8609
Website: http://www.respect.uk.net
Parenting post trauma:
http://www.parentingposttraums.co.uk
“You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.”
― Mae West
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