Domestic Abuse

Domestic abuse is best described as the use of physical and/or emotional abuse, or violence including:

• Undermining self-confidence
• Sexual violence, or
• The threat of violence.

By a person who is, or has been in a close relationship with you.

Domestic abuse can take many forms:

• Actual physical violence
• Emotional abuse
• Destruction of a spouse’s or partner’s property
• Isolating the victim from family, friends or other potential sources of support
• Threats to others, including children
• Control over access to money, personal items, food, transportation and the telephone
• Stalking

Whilst it is recognised that many victims are women and this violence can impact upon children, it is also acknowledged that victims can also be men or same sex partners.

How you will wish to deal with the abuse will depend on your personal circumstances of what is happening to you, including:

• The severity and/or nature of the violence or harassment
• The relationship between you and the abuser
• Your wishes about the protection you require from the law

It is important to know that there is help available – further advice can be gained by contacting Erewash Borough Council’s Housing Options Team regarding the use of civil remedies, after personal assessment of your case. Or alternatively you may need immediate help to secure a temporary safe place to stay.

In an emergency you can contact the following:

Telephone the Police and ask to be put through to the Domestic Violence Unit.

During office hours contact:

Housing Options Team on 0845 907 2244 extension 3590

Out of office hours contact:

The National Women’s Aid on FREEPHONE 0808 2000 247

The Emergency Duty Team on 01773 728222

PLEASE REMEMBER YOU ARE NOT ALONE, HELP IS AVAILABLE TO STOP THE ABUSE
NOW!

East Derbyshire Domestic Violence Forum

The East Derbyshire Domestic Violence Forum offers support and information for victims and survivors of Domestic Abuse. Please feel safe to contact us or drop in to any of the venues listed:

Alfreton
Alfreton House, Room 14, High Street
Friday 11.00 am - 1.00 pm

Ripley
The Mews, Church Street
Wednesday 10.30 am - 12.30 pm

Cotmanhay
The Sure Start Building, Beauvale Drive
Monday 12.30 pm - 2.30 pm

Long Eaton
Family Support Centre, Lime Terrace
Thursday 1.00 pm - 3.00 pm

Kirk Hallam
Sure Start Building, Kenilworth Drive
Wednesday 10.30 am - 2.30 pm

Ironville
Resource Centre
Wednesday 10.30 am - 2.30 pm

24 HOUR SUPPORT LINE 0800 0198 668