Domestic Violence
Domestic violence is any incident of threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between adults who are or have been in a relationship together, or between family members, regardless of gender or sexuality.
Whatever form it takes, domestic violence is rarely a one-off incident. More usually it's a pattern of abusive and controlling behaviour through which the abuser seeks power over their victim.
Domestic violence occurs across society, regardless of age, gender, race, sexuality, wealth and geography. The figures show, however, that it consists mainly of violence by men against women.
Victims of domestic violence suffer on many levels - health, housing, education - and lose the freedom to live their lives how they want, and without fear. The Safer Wealden Partnership aims to support victims of domestic violence through the commissioning of services, support through partnership work and encouraging reporting of domestic violence incidents by raising awareness.
Too often the crime of domestic violence is hidden away; if you feel you have been a victim of domestic violence, there is help available.
The National Domestic Violence Helpline (external link)
Advice for women suffering from domestic violence. The 24 hour helpline can be contacted on 0808 2000 247. Women can also find advice from the following organisations Refuge, Womens Aid (external links)
CRI Wealden Domestic Abuse Project (external link) or call 01323 414224
The Samaritans (external link) or call 08457 909090
In an emergency call 999
Mens Advice & Enquiry Line (external link)
Mens Advice Line offers a service aimed at men experiencing domestic abuse from their partner or call 0808 801 0327
Mens Aid (external link)
Mens Aid is a registered charity which has been set up to provide free practical advice and support to men who have been abused or call 0871 223 9986
Broken Rainbow (external link)
Supports lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people who are experiencing domestic violence or call 08452 60 44 60 or 0300 999 LGBT (5428)