Domestic
abuse
We have a zero-tolerance approach to
domestic abuse
What is domestic abuse?
Women's Aid defines domestic abuse as an incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive, threatening, degrading and violent behaviour, including sexual violence, in the majority of cases by a partner or ex-partner, but also by a family member or carer.
Find out more about domestic abuse on the Women's Aid website
How we can help
We have a zero-tolerance approach to domestic abuse. As part of this, we will sensitively provide support and advice to customers who experience domestic abuse, and we will always aim to maintain the customer’s trust.
As part of this, we will:
- Be led by the wishes of the person who is experiencing domestic abuse.
- Assist them to pursue legal remedies such as restraining orders and injunctions.
- Protect their confidentiality.
Support in leaving home
Where a customer who has experienced domestic abuse is unable to remain in their home, we will:
- Help them prepare to leave their home.
- Help them to leave at a time of their choosing, whether this is spontaneously, at short notice or at an arranged time that suits them.
- Ensure they are aware of the various housing options which are available, whether it is urgently required, temporary or long term.
- Help them access alternative accommodation.
- Reassure them that experiencing domestic abuse does not put a customer at risk of becoming homeless.
Support in remaining at home
Where a customer who has experienced domestic abuse wants to continue living in their home, we will:
- Offer to improve the security in their home and provide advice on security measures which can be taken.
- Enable them to alert statutory and voluntary organisations and other sources of help when abuse occurs.
- Commit to quickly repairing security elements of the home damaged because of domestic abuse.
How to get support
If you are experiencing domestic abuse, there is support available.
Email Raj, our domestic abuse champion
Or contact the 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline, which features a team of highly-trained, female advisers that can support you to increase your safety. You can call them on 0808 2000 247, or chat with them on the Refuge website.
Being a victim of domestic abuse does not put you at risk of becoming homeless. If you are unable to enter your home for any reason or are threatened with homelessness, please contact your local council's Applicant Services (Housing Needs) immediately.
If you are in an emergency situation, please call 999.