People may think of domestic abuse as physical abuse, but it can also be verbal, sexual, financial or psychological abuse.
Domestic abuse can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, religion, sexuality or social background between those who are or have been intimate partners or family members. No form of domestic abuse is acceptable.
If you are experiencing domestic abuse, it can be isolating and difficult to find support or think about your options. That’s why Safe Spaces have been created.
UK SAYS NO MORE is working with pharmacies, banks and selected jobcentres across the UK to provide Safe Spaces in their consultation rooms for people experiencing domestic abuse. Find your nearest Safe Space.
In an emergency
If you feel unsafe and fear harm from someone abusing you, get somewhere safe and call the Police straight away on 999.
If you can’t speak out loud, press 55 so that the operator knows you need help.
If you use British Sign Language, contact 999 BSL at 999bsl.co.uk or download the 999 BSL app.
Need a safe place to stay
Advice and support can be found through the Refuge website and helpline 0808 200 0247. The freephone number is available 24-hours a day, 365 days a year and in confidence.
This number provides access to advice on 24 hour emergency refuge accommodation and an information service that includes safety planning and translation for non-English speakers.
Domestic abuse and housing
If you rent from a housing association, contact your tenancy officer to discuss the support available. This may include extra security measures in your home, transferring to another property, helping you to secure a place in a refuge or temporary accommodation. Never surrender your tenancy until you have discussed your concerns with your tenancy officer or someone from our housing team.
If you need to leave your home due to domestic violence or you are homeless, find out about the housing advice and support we can offer.
Panic alarms
We provide free panic alarms to all women and girls. Please email community.safety@sevenoaks.gov.uk with your postal address.
Help for perpetrators
The Community Domestic Abuse Programme is designed to help men who feel their behaviour towards their partner has been, or is still, abusive. This programme will support men to develop respectful and non-abusive relationships so they are safe around their partner and children.
Find out more about the Community Domestic Abuse Programme.
Further help and support
Domestic Abuse Volunteer Support Services (DAVSS) is a local charity supporting women and men experiencing domestic abuse.
Domestic Abuse One Stop Shop services are available throughout Kent. Further details can be found in the links below:
Domestic abuse services available in Kent
National domestic abuse services
Domestic abuse information on GOV.UK
How to get support if you are deaf
Other ways to access non-urgent support
- The textphone service on 18001 101
- Victim Support and use the text RELAY UK app to connect with a BSL interpreter
- Contact SignHealth by texting 07800 003421 or email da@signhealth.org.uk