Understanding domestic violence
What is domestic violence:
Domestic violence is the physical, emotional, psychological, sexual or financial abuse that takes place within an intimate or family relationship and is part of a pattern of coercive and controlling behaviour. Statistically the perpetrator of such a pattern of repeated assaults is usually a man.
If you, a friend or a family member is being subjected to domestic violence, then you are not on your own, call our helpline 08088 088 088 10am to 8pm Monday to Friday. This will not appear on your phone bill, or at all other times call the Samaritans 01923 233333.
Domestic violence, the facts:
Domestic violence can occur in any relationship regardless of ethnicity, religion, class, age, sexuality, disability, lifestyle or social class.
It can occur in a range of relationships including heterosexual, gay, lesbian, bi-sexual and transgender.
Domestic violence affects as many as 1 in 4 women in their lifetime regardless of ethnic origin or background.
Two women on average are killed by their violent partners or ex-partner every week.
In any one year approximately 24,000 women, and over 30,000 children, stay in refuges after fleeing domestic violence.
Violence in the home is a criminal offence.
Less than half of all incidents are reported to the police, but they still receive one domestic violence call every minute in the UK.
How to help a friend suffering from domestic violence?
No matter what provocation there is no justification for violence.
Unless you are a professional, do not confront the abuser.
There are many agencies / organisations you can seek advice from- (Click here for our Important links page).
Never give the abuser any information on the woman or her location.
Never give any information to her family or friends without her permission.
Don’t be ‘charmed’ by the abuser.
Abusers can seem like nice people but they can be very manipulative and possessive.
Remember abusers avoid taking responsibility for their actions.
They will try to deny, minimise, lie and justify their behaviour.
Men who want to change, need to take responsibility for their behaviour.
There are specifically designed courses to help them.
To get more information call 08 088 088 088 (between 10am and 8pm Monday to Friday). |
|
Dacorum Women’s Aid:
Call
08 088 088 088
(10am – 8pm Mon to Fri)
All other times
Samaritans
01923 233333
The Borough of Dacorum covers:
Kings Langley, Apsley,
Hemel Hempstead, Berkhamsted, Tring and surrounding villages.
About us
What we can offer
How to get involved
Important Links
Contact us |
|
