We know how difficult it is to make that first step which is why we want to reassure you that our team is non-judgmental, impartial and keeps everything you share with them completely confidential.
We do not share any information with anyone, UNLESS we feel that you or someone else are in immediate danger or there is a threat to life.
If you need emergency support, then always call 999!
Basic information:
We will ask you for basic information such as your name, address and why you have called us today. If you are calling on behalf of someone else, we will ask you to ask them to contact us directly on a dedicated phone number.
If there is a language barrier, we do have staff who speak several languages, or we can arrange for an interpreter to be available during your assessment.
However, if you are not quite ready to disclose personal data, we can still listen and support.
If you disclose that you are a victim of domestic abuse, in whatever form, we will ask you a short series of questions to fully understand your current situation and who else may be at risk in your family.
Our team is here to listen and together we will devise a plan on the best way we can support you.
Initial assessment:
The next step would be to have an initial assessment with our team which can be done over the phone or in person at our support centre. We prioritise this as soon as possible so we can assess your risk and support needs.
Following that meeting we will be able to share with you the types of abusive behaviours we feel you have shared with us. We will clearly explain why they are considered ‘abuse’ and how this abuse can impact survivors.
We are not here to report the perpetrator. We are here solely to support you. We will NEVER contact them directly or compromise your safety. Your wellbeing and safety is our number one priority at all times.
We can signpost you to the right organisations who can help with keeping you (and others at risk) safe, leaving a perpetrator, accessing emergency housing or seeking the advice of a solicitor.
If you are considering ending the relationship we can implement a safety plan which may include:
- Keeping your phone fully charged
- Turning location settings off
- Having a bag of emergency clothing, medication and important documents such as passports to hand
- Find someone you trust and use a ‘code word’ with them to indicate that you need emergency support
- Keeping a record or taking a photo of any incidents or behaviours which may be abusive
We understand your situation:
Many of our team have been in the same situation as you and we understand how traumatic it is to make that first call. But we also know that with the right support and advice that there is hope for a better future – free of abuse. If you know or think you are a victim of domestic abuse, we can help. Please get in touch.
Call us on 0151 494 1777 or text 07593 549 004.