Domestic Violence

You are not alone if you are a victim of domestic violence and there are lots of organisations to help you.

What to do if you are a victim of domestic violence

Domestic violence is one of the worst forms of abuse.  It can include physical assault, sexual abuse and verbal threats. It can also include more subtle attacks such as pressure tactics, constant breaking of trust, isolation, psychological games and harassment.

It can affect partners in all types of relationships and can also involve violence between parents and children.

If you are in an abusive relationship, there are three important steps you can take.

• Recognise that it is happening to you
• Accept that you are not to blame
• Get help and support

In an emergency, you should call the police on 999 (minicom 0800 112 999). Domestic violence is treated very seriously by the police and the courts.

You can also call the 24 Hour National Domestic Violence Helpline on 0808 2000 247.

Planning to keep safe

Choose someone to talk to, whether you plan to leave or stay e.g. a friend, relative or one of the agencies listed on this page.

• In an emergency RING 999.
• If you need to leave, plan where to go (e.g. refuge OR stay with a friend or relative).
• If you can, take medical, school, financial records.
• Also, take personal items, photos, children's toys, clothes.
• Tell someone who cares about you, that you are safe.
• Be careful after you have left, especially if you are in a place your partner may go.

 

There are other people and organisations you can turn to if you are suffering from domestic violence. These can include your GP, local support groups and charities.

• National Domestic Violence Helpline 0808 2000 247
• Victim Support 01606 352623
• Shelter - 340539
• Cheshire Domestic Violence Outreach Service 01606 351375
• Chester Women's Services (Refuge) 01244 314950
• Social Services 01244 603400
• Out of Hours Service 01606 766 11
• Rape Crisis 01244 317922
• Housing - Homeless Section 0808 100 7701
• Police Referral Unit 01244 614205
• Men's Advice Line (MALE) 0808 801 0327
• Respect phone Line for perpetrators of Domestic Violence 0845 122 8609

Chester has a Domestic Violence Forum where different agencies meet to plan and co-ordinate work to tackle domestic abuse. The Forum links in with the work of the Cheshire Domestic Abuse Partnership ( CDAP ) and the Chester Community Safety Partnership.

For more information contact Alison Amesbury, Chester City Council, Tel: 01244 402563.

• Cheshire Domestic Abuse Partnership (external link)
• Living Without Fear (external link) 
• Women's Aid (external link) 
• Refuge (external link)