Find out how to get help if you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse.
People/ Places you can call:
In an emergency, call 999. If you cannot speak, dial 55. This will put your call through to police call management and a BT operator will remain on the phone.
Call the National Domestic Abuse Helpline for free and confidential advice, 24 hours a day on 0808 2000 247.
The Men’s Advice Line is a confidential helpline for male victims of domestic abuse. Call 0800 801 0327 or email info@mensadviceline.org.uk.
Samaritans is also available to those feeling low or needing somebody to talk to. Although they do not specialise in domestic abuse they are non-judgemental and free to contact on 116 123.
Notts SVS Services can be reached at 0115 941 0440 for those who are suffering sexual violence. They are not a part of the NHS, police or any other public service but are a Registered Independent Charity which has supported survivors of sexual violence for over 35 years.
LGBTQ+ Domestic Abuse Helpline can be reached on 0800 999 5428 or by emailing help@galop.org.uk.
Karma Nirvana are a helpline for ‘honour’ based abuse and forced marriage. They are available on 0800 5999 247. You can also fill in a form on their website which allows you to request a ‘safe call back’ where you can leave your information and a safe date and time to be contacted.
Family, friends, colleagues or neighbours may also be another form of support. Is there anybody you could call? Could you create a code word or hand gesture to communicate a problem with a friend over the phone or Skype/Facetime?
Live chats, survivor guides and websites:
There are a vast amount of resources online, however you may wish to delete or hide your browsing history. You could also open an ‘incognito window’ using Chrome. Please see this guide for technology safety and privacy.
Women’s Aid offer a live chat service available Monday-Friday 10am-4pm. They have also created a survivor’s guide which includes information and advice on housing, supporting children, money, and legal rights.
Victim Support Live chat is also available by clicking ‘Chat now’ in the bottom right hand corner of their website. It also information for finding support in your area and requesting support online, as well as an online resource called ‘My Support Space’. My support Space is an online resource to help you manage the impact crime has had on you, including access to interactive support guides, requesting direct support, creating a recovery diary, and finding useful resources.
Chayn has global resources put together by survivors. It includes legal help, detecting and handling abuse advice as well as support for your well being. A lot of the information is also available in a variety of languages.
Places you can go:
Getting out of the house can be tricky and could be heightened during the Coronavirus pandemic. In some cases, a safety plan may be necessary. For information on creating a personal safety plan, click visit the Women’s Aid website.
Boots Pharmacy Consultation Rooms become a safe space for victims of domestic abuse. This scheme was introduced as a necessary response for those victims self-isolating with their perpetrators during the lock down. Morrisons’ pharmacies are also providing a safe space for those experiencing domestic abuse.
Nottingham Women’s Centre is run by women, for women. It is a safe environment in which women can gain confidence and skills to become stronger and more independent by taking part in activities, getting support, or campaigning or being present in bringing about change. Their building is currently closed due to Covid-19, but they are still providing services remotely. Click here to see what they can offer.
More services can be found by clicking here. There is also information on reporting domestic violence, recognising the signs, supporting friends and so much more.