Domestic Abuse

What is domestic abuse?

Always call 999 if you or someone else is in danger or a crime is in progress. If you are unable to talk, stay on the line and press 55 when prompted.

Call 101 for non-emergency advice from the police.

Anyone can be a victim of domestic abuse.

Domestic abuse can mean any kind of violent, threatening or controlling behaviour between people in a relationship. It can be physical, emotional, sexual, financial and psychological.

It can include so-called 'honour-based' violence or abuse such as female genital mutilation (FGM) and forced marriage.

Domestic abuse can happen to anyone. If you're experiencing domestic abuse you should get help immediately.

Remember that you are not to blame - never be afraid to ask for help and support.

Read Disrespect Nobody's guidance on spotting the signs of relationship abuse. (opens new window)

Read the legal definition of domestic abuse in the Domestic Abuse Act 2021.

Get help now

Always call 999 if you or someone else is in danger or a crime is in progress. If you are unable to talk, stay on the line and press 55 when prompted.

Call 101 for non-emergency advice from the police.

We can help if you are experiencing any type of domestic abuse. Domestic abuse can include bullying, threatening or violent behaviour.

You can visit the English National Domestic Violence Helpline website.

Call 0808 2000 247

For help, text 'NCDV' to 60777

Pharmacies, including Boots and Superdrug, are offering their consulting rooms as Safe Spaces near you for victims of domestic violence. Walk into any of the pharmacies taking part and ask to use their Safe Space. The room will contain all of the information you need and provide a sanctuary to make relevant calls.

Help for LGBTQ+ people

If you are in a same-sex relationship you can call the National LGBT+ Domestic Violence Helpline on 0800 999 5428

Help for men

Men can get targeted help through the Men's Advice Line.

Telephone: 0808 801 0327 (free call)

Lines are open Monday to Friday from 9:00am to 5:00pm.

I need to leave my home because of domestic violence

You may decide to leave your home if you are at risk from domestic violence.

If you can, you should try to organise temporary accommodation before you leave. We realise this will not always be possible. You should always leave your home if it is not safe for you to live there.

However, you should speak to us as soon as you can. We may be able to help you move back to your home and live there safely at a later date.

For this reason, we strongly advise that you do not, for example:

• post your door keys through your letterbox
• return your door keys to your landlord

Actions like this could indicate you have left your home permanently. It may make it difficult for us to help you move back if and when it is safe to do so.

Read Refuge's advice about planning to leave home.