Domestic Abuse
Domestic Abuse
Domestic Abuse is one of the biggest issues in society today. The true scale of the problem is difficult to determine because a large proportion of domestic abuse goes un-reported.
As a Housing Provider, we are well placed to recognise the signs of domestic abuse. We take all reports of domestic abuse seriously and will work positively and pro-actively with the victim to offer support.
We will take a zero-tolerance approach to domestic abuse and will treat all reports with the utmost sensitivity. We will take a victim centered approach to cases with the aim of reducing risks posed to the victim and any affected household members.
We are committed to providing an effective response to domestic abuse by:
- Dealing with all disclosures as a priority
- Respecting the privacy of all victims and dealing with reports of domestic abuse in the strictest of confidence, unless we have a duty to disclose information
- Taking all disclosures of domestic abuse seriously and taking a non-judgmental, victim centered approach
- Putting victims in contact with specialist agencies who can offer advice and support
- Assessing the victims housing needs and safeguarding security of tenure whenever possible
- Taking action against perpetrators when appropriate and assisting those who wish to positively change their behaviour by helping them access support and assistance.
We recognise that the safety of the victim and their family is paramount, and we will do all we can to ensure that they are protected. In fulfilling this commitment, we will work with statutory agencies and key partners to manage risks posed to the victim and their household. Higher risk cases will be referred to the local Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference (MARAC).
You can view our Domestic Abuse Policy on our policy section.
If you are at risk or experiencing abuse help and support is available:
If you’re in danger, call 999 and try to speak to the operator if you can, even by whispering. You may be asked to cough or tap the keys on your phone to answer questions.
Cumbria police non-emergency call 101 or online www.cumbria.police.uk/report-it. In an emergency always call 999
Calling 999 from a landline:
If you don’t speak or answer questions and the operator can only hear background noise, they’ll transfer your call to the police.
If you replace the handset, the landline may remain connected for 45 seconds in case you pick it up again. Calling 999 from a landline automatically gives the police information about your location.
How to make a silent 999 from your mobile:
If you don’t speak or answer questions, press 55 when prompted and your call will be transferred to the Police. Pressing 55 only works on mobiles and doesn’t allow the police to track your location. If you don’t press 55 your call will be ended.
Don’t Suffer in Silence – Useful Contacts
Bright Sky:
Bright Sky us a free to download mobile app providing support and information for anyone who may be in an abusive relationship or those concerned about someone they know.
For more information, please see details and advice about using the app in your app store:
- Bright Sky in Apple Store
- Bright Sky in Google Play
Cumbria Victim Support: 0300 3030 157 and 24/7 Support Line 0808 1689 111 [email protected]
Safety Net: 01228 515859, www.safetynetuk.org/make-a-referral
National LGBT Domestic Abuse Victims: 0800 9995428
Mankind Initiative: 01823 334244 and Men’s Advice Line 0808 8010327
24 Hour National Domestic Abuse Freephone helpline: 01942 262 270
Refuge: 0808 2000 247, www.refuge.org.uk
Respect Men’s Advice Line: 0808 801 0327, www.mensadviceline.org.uk
Women’s Aid: 0808 200 0247, Women’s Aid
Crimestoppers UK: 0800 555 111
Domestic Abuse Alliance: 0800 101 7110, https://domestic-abuse.co.uk
Domestic Abuse Alliance brings together organisations working on the frontline of domestic abuse across the UK with the legal sector to deliver joined-up instant legal assistance and protection.
The Domestic Abuse Alliance run the “We Protect app”. Via this app, victims of Domestic Abuse can get free, legal advice. Referrals can be made online via a one-page form or via telephone
Support for Perpetrators Programmes
Turning the Spotlight (TTS): provides a holistic whole family approach to working with those causing harm and abuse, and situations where conflict within relationships is becoming or has the potential to become abusive. This is based on a 12-week healthy relationships group programme.
They Matter: works with perpetrators of Domestic Abuse who have been assessed as a high risk of harm. The programme combines group and 1:1 work.
The services above are provided by Victim Support Cumbria are free and you do not need to have reported to the police, meaning Perpetrators of Domestic Abuse can access programmes without conviction
www.victimsupport.org.uk/cumbria/turning-the-spotlight/
Step Up: a group programme for families experiencing youth violence in the home. The overall aim of the programme is to support young people to stop violent and abusive behaviour, restore safety, trust and respect and to promote accountability to young people for their own behaviour in the home.