Every year, thousands of women, men and children are abused in their own home by people they love. This is domestic violence or domestic abuse. It may be physical, emotional, psychological or sexual. Domestic abuse happens anywhere, in all kinds of families (including same sex relationships) and all kinds of homes. It happens across all kinds of age groups, social classes and across all racial and ethnic backgrounds.
Domestic abuse includes:
physical abuse including hitting, kicking, slapping and punching
exual abuse including rape and being forced into sex or humiliating sexual acts
emotional abuse including being constantly criticised or threatened or humiliated
psychological abuse including being isolated or intimidated, being deprived of sleep or money
Nobody has the right to do this to you or treat you like this. It can be confusing because this happens in a relationship which is meant to be loving and caring. However, it is important to remember that you do not cause the violence and it is not your fault. There are many people who will listen to you and offer practical and emotional support.
Contact numbers for those experiencing domestic abuse
Police
In an emergency dial 999 The Public Protection Investigations Unit for North Surrey is staffed by specialist trained police officers who will take positive action to protect you, prosecute offenders and reduce repeat victimisation.
The Unit is staffed during office hours, Monday to Friday. Out of hours there is an answer phone message but in an emergency you must dial999.
North Surrey Public Protection Investigations Unit - 0845 125 2222 Walton Police Station New Zealand Avenue Walton on Thames
North Surrey Domestic Violence Outreach Service
The North Surrey Domestic Violence Outreach Service is a free, impartial service for both men and women regardless of age, race, religion, gender, sexuality or disability. It is for people living in Spelthorne, Elmbridge and Epsom and Ewell. Trained outreach workers can give you practical help and emotional support, as well as advice about housing rights, the legal system, relationships and separation, safety planning and how to support your children.
Outreach workers are available Monday to Friday between 9.30am and 4.30pm. You can also leave a message on the answer phone and someone will call you back.
North Surrey Domestic Violence Outreach Service - 01932 260690
Surrey Women's Aid
Surrey Women's Aid offers impartial support and information to enable women to make informed choices about what they want to happen. They will help you to look at your options and access further support where necessary.
Victim Support is a national independent charity supporting victims of crime, whether or not a crime was reported to the police. They can give you help, support and advice free of charge and in confidence. Victim Support provides outreach support through a team of domestic violence specialists.
Victim Support Spelthorne - 01784 446 202
Housing
You have a choice about what you do about accommodation.
If you have to leave your home in a hurry and have nowhere to go you should contact the Housing Needs Team.
You may want to stay in your home. If you do, you may be able to take legal action to stop your violent partner from coming to your home. You may be able to get additional security for your home which will make you feel safer.
A supported housing service for people trying to escape domestic abuse has recently been launched in Spelthorne.
For advice about your housing options contact the Housing Needs Team.
Spelthorne Council Housing Needs Team - 01784 446386 Council Offices, Knowle Green, Staines
