Domestic abuse

In an emergency

In an emergency always dial 999. If it is not safe to talk or make a noise, you can still get help using the Silent Solution System.

About

Domestic abuse is abusive behaviour between those aged over 16 years who are or were in a close relationship, like partners or family members, even if they have separated. This is regardless of age, gender, religion, ethnicity, class, sexual orientation, marital status or background.

The statutory definition

The definition of domestic abuse is in two parts. The first part is the relationship between the abuser and the abused. The second part explains what kinds of actions are considered abuse.

The criteria governing the relationship between the abuser and the abused:

both the person who is carrying out the behaviour and the person to whom the behaviour is directed towards must be aged 16 or over
both persons must be “personally connected” (including ex-partners and family members)
Abusive behaviour directed at a person under 16 would be dealt with as child abuse rather than domestic abuse

Behaviour is to be regarded as ‘abusive’ if it any of the following:

physical or sexual abuse
violent or threatening behaviour
controlling or coercive behaviour, even after separation
economic abuse – any behaviour that has a substantial adverse effect on acquiring, using or maintaining money or other property, or obtaining goods or services
psychological, emotional or other abuse

The Domestic Abuse Act

On 29 April 2021, the Domestic Abuse Act became law. The Act creates, for the first time, a legal definition of domestic abuse. This is to make sure that domestic abuse is properly understood, considered unacceptable and actively challenged across statutory agencies and in public attitudes.

The Act recognises a child who sees or hears or experiences domestic, the effects of the abuse and treats them as victims of domestic abuse where they are related to either the abuser or the abused.
The Act includes a new statutory duty on local authorities to deliver accommodation-based support to victims of domestic abuse.
The Act introduced other measures to protect and support victims. This included a new Domestic Abuse Protection Notice and Order. It also improved the criminal justice response. For example, by preventing the cross-examination of victims in family court proceedings by the abuser.
The Act also creates the National Domestic Abuse Commissioner role. This is an ‘independent voice’ that speaks on behalf of victims and survivors. Using the Act’s statutory powers, the Domestic Abuse Commissioner will raise public awareness and hold both agencies and the Government to account in tackling domestic abuse.

For more information, visit the Domestic Abuse Act – GOV.UK.

Somerset Domestic Abuse Service

The Somerset Domestic Abuse Service is open to anyone who needs specialist support. This can include all types of relationships, regardless of race, ethnic or religious group, disability, sexuality, lifestyle, nationality or age.

The service provides specialist advice, including financial and legal support, help accessing benefits, support into work and establishing Independent financial arrangements. They can also advise on personal security measures that may be available and supporting with a safety plan. It is important to remember that couples counselling is not recommended and could be dangerous. Instead, it is always best to speak to a specialist service, such as Somerset Domestic Abuse Service or Victim Support.

The Somerset Domestic Abuse website provides information, help and support for anyone affected by domestic abuse in Somerset. It includes a directory of local and national services.

You can phone the Somerset Domestic Abuse Service on 0800 69 49 999 from 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week, select the option for Somerset. More ways to get in touch are on the Somerset Domestic Abuse Service contact us page.

The helpline is a single point of contact for confidential advice and support to any person concerned about domestic abuse in the Avon and Somerset area. If no one can answer your call, leave a number and a safe time to phone and they will get back to you.

Help for under 18s

If you or someone in your family is being abused at home, tell someone you can trust like a teacher or a friend or even their parents. You will not get into trouble for telling someone. Children and Young people can contact the service for support. They can also call Childline. They will be able to help you deal with the situation and won’t tell anyone else you are calling unless you are in immediate danger.

Help for a housing association tenant

Speak to your landlord and let them know the situation. They may be able to help you along with other support agencies and possibly the Police. If you want to remain in your house, they may be able to help by carrying out safety work to your home, for example, fitting secure doors, changing locks, securing windows and fireproof letter boxes.

Unable to stay in your home

If you are unable to stay in your home and have been unable to get a refuge placement, please contact us. You will need to provide us with some information about you and your situation and usually some supporting evidence. This will allow us to understand your circumstances and provide appropriate advice and guidance. You may be offered emergency accommodation whilst waiting for a Refuge placement where you will be safer and can get support planning your next step.

For more information and to find out what services are available, visit the Accommodation page on the Somerset Domestic Abuse website.

What you can do if you think it is happening to a friend

For people suffering domestic abuse, the support of a trusted friend can be invaluable. It is important that the person knows you believe them and that they are not alone. Try not to judge or blame either party. Encourage your friend to contact one of the agencies who can help. If you witness an assault, phone the police. Do not intervene physically.

As well as the police, the Somerset Domestic Abuse Service offer support and practical advice. The service is confidential, non-judgemental and completely free. Find out more on the Supporting someone page on the Somerset Domestic Abuse website.

Training on recognising the signs and supporting someone who is experiencing domestic abuse is also available on the Vue App which can be found on the Somerset Domestic Abuse website.

For perpetrators of domestic abuse

Anger management is not recommended and could actually be dangerous.

For people who want help to change their controlling behaviour, Somerset Integrated Domestic Abuse Service (SIDAS) offers a voluntary, behavioural change group work programme.

This programme encourages people to take responsibility for their behaviour and understand the impact on their partner and children.

For more information, phone Somerset Integrated Domestic Abuse Service (SIDAS) Perpetrator Programme on 0800 694 9999 or for other support contact Respect on 0845 122 8609

Somerset Domestic Abuse Service – Information for those causing harm

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