Domestic Abuse: Support for our Community

The Covid-19 pandemic is a dangerous time for people experiencing domestic abuse. There is evidence of a rise in calls for support during this period.

Domestic abuse can be any incident of threatening behaviour, violence or abuse (psychological, physical, sexual, financial or emotional) between people who are or have been intimate partners or family members, regardless of gender. This includes forced marriage and abuse within same sex relationships. Domestic abuse can affect anyone, whatever your background. It can happen at any point in a relationship, including after you have split up. Anyone forced to change their behaviour because they are frightened of their partner or ex-partner’s reaction is experiencing abuse.

Domestic abuse is never the fault of the person who is experiencing it.

Domestic abuse is a crime.

In an emergency

• Help and support services are still operating during lockdown. Police will still attend calls for service and those fleeing from abuse are entitled to do so whilst lockdown is in operation.
• If you are in immediate danger, or you suspect someone is in immediate danger please call 999 and ask for the police. Silent calls will work if you are not safe to speak – to use the Silent Solution system call 999 and then press 55.
• 24 hour Domestic Abuse helpline is available on 0808 2000 247 https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/

National Helplines

• Men’s Advice Line 0808 801 0327 (Confidential helpline for male victims of domestic abuse).
• National LGBT Domestic Abuse Helpline 0800 999 5428 (Emotional and practical support for LGBT+ people).
• Karma Nirvana (Honour Based Violence) 0800 599 247.
• National Domestic Abuse Helpline 0808 2000 247 (Free 24-hour national helpline)
• Email: helpline@womensaid.org.uk. Live chat  https://chat.womensaid.org.uk (Monday to Friday 10am -12pm)

Local Support

Safespots drop-in centre, located in the heart of Wythenshawe at Alderman House, provides a friendly non-judgemental and confidential service for women. The Centre operates a drop-in service Monday to Friday 9.30am-2.30pm. Telephone: 07873889637 or email info@safespots.org.uk

MEA

Remember, we are also here to help. Please contact the Academy if you would like to talk and a member of the Safeguarding Team will return your call.