Domestic Violence and Abuse
What is Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence is any threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between adults who are or have been in a relationship, or between family members. It can affect anybody, regardless of their gender or sexuality.
The violence can be psychological, physical, sexual or emotional. It can include 'honour-based violence', female genital mutilation, and forced marriage.
Did you Know
- One in four women and one in six men will be a victim of domestic violence in their lifetime with women at greater risk of repeat victimisation and serious injury.
- On average, two women a week are killed by a current or former male partner.
- One incident of domestic violence is reported to the police every minute.
- A study found that 80% of women in a violent relationship had sought help from the Health Service at least once.
- Domestic violence accounts for one quarter of all violent crime and costs £278 M per year in London alone.
The Council is involved in a partnership approach to tackling domestic violence through the Community Safety Partnership. It has a well established Domestic Violence Forum whose membership includes the police, health visitors, social services, housing associations and victim support.
As well as a community safety and health issue many victims of domestic violence suffer from housing related problems. In extreme circumstances someone can end up homeless as a result of fleeing domestic violence. The Council has supported a Women's Refuge (run by Women's Aid) in the District for a number of years and can make referrals.
For other options, you can call the Domestic Violence Helpline on:
0800 1691981
Other useful contacts:
- National Womens Aid Domestic Violence Helpline 0845 7023468
- Victim Support 01256 423860
- Samaritans 023 9269 1313
- Police (Hants & IOW) 0845 045 4545
- Women's Aid 01420 590109
- EHDC Housing Advice Team (01730) 234345/77/78/94/97
- CAB
- Alton (01420) 84399
- Bordon (01420) 477747
- Petersfield (01730) 264887
- Waterlooville (02392) 717700
- Liphook (01428) 722988 (Tues/Weds/Thurs - 10am to 1pm)
- Social Services Alton 0845 603 5630, Petersfield (01730) 265462
- Men's Aid provide free practical advice and support to men who have been abused 0871 223 9986 http://www.mensaid.com/