Domestic violence and homelessness

Domestic abuse is behaviour that is intended to dominate, threaten, coerce and control someone else in an intimate or other family relationship.

Domestic abuse is not only about violence and physical harm. It can include emotional, psychological, sexual or financial abuse. Forced marriage, female genital mutilation and so-called 'honour' based violence are also forms of domestic abuse.

Getting help

• in immediate danger? Call 999

For women, Call Juno Women's Aid 24 hour helpline:

• telephone: 0808 800 0340 (24/7)
• website: Juno Women's Aid

For men, call the Respect Men's advice line (Monday to Friday - 10:00am to 8:00pm)

• men: 0808 801 0327

What is domestic abuse?

If someone is being abused, they may be experiencing some or all of the following:

• mocking, humiliation, insults, criticism
• being checked up on, followed, or stalked
• pressure, threats, intimidation, or violence
• destruction of their possessions
• isolation from family and friends
• being forced into sex
• having money taken or controlled
• lying, blame and denial of the abuse.

How to get help

If you are experiencing domestic abuse and you feel you are at risk to stay in your home, councils are a source of support. You do not need to have a local connection to approach us for help but it is important you approach a council in an area where you will be safe.

If it is safe for you to stay in Ashfield we may be able to make your current home more secure through the Sanctuary Scheme.

What is the Sanctuary Scheme?

The Sanctuary Scheme allows victims to remain in the familiar environment of their home whilst they are experiencing the problems that arise as a result of domestic abuse.

What does it provide?

It provides professionally installed security measures to the house of the person experiencing domestic abuse. An appropriately qualified officer will make an assessment of the property and recommend works to create security measures to enable the survivor to feel safe inside the house.

Who is it for?

It works for survivors who wish to stay in their own home, where it is safe to do so and where the perpetrator has no rights to enter the accommodation.

Survivors will also be offered support from an appropriate service.

Who is it not for?

For some people, the scheme will not be appropriate, and it will be safer for them to move away.

In all cases, it is vital that there is clear and ongoing risk assessment and that safety is paramount.