Domestic Violence
What exactly is domestic abuse?
Domestic Abuse is a crime
It is any physical, sexual, emotional or financial abuse that takes place between partners, ex partners or family members.
But it is hardly ever simple.
Sometimes there are no bruises to see.
Sometimes it’s not just about your own safety.
Sometimes it feels like there is just no way out.
Anyone can be affected, no matter where you live or who you are.
But there is always someone to turn to…
What do YOU need to know?
Domestic Abuse exists in all communities; it can happen to men, and women and young people. The West Berkshire Domestic Abuse Forum is a multi agency partnership that aims to improve services for those affected by domestic abuse. There are various organisations in the West Berkshire area who can help you if you are experiencing domestic abuse or know someone who is. We also have services if you are hurting someone and you want to stop.
Help is only a phone call away.
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POLICE
There are dedicated Domestic Abuse Officers at Thames Valley Police who are trained Police Officers with specialist expertise in this field.
What can they do?
Arrest threatening or violent offenders where violations of criminal laws occur e.g. harassment Provide comprehensive advice on matters of the law Supply victims with domestic alarms Offer support through their own organisation and resources Refer victims to other agencies for support in other areas
In an emergency dial 999 and ask for Police
During office hours contact the Domestic Abuse Unit on 01635 264639 or the Police Enquiry Centre on 08458 505 505
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BERKSHIRE WOMEN’S AID
BWA believes that domestic abuse is a crime and that all women should live free from abuse or fear at home or in their relationships.
What can they do?
Make help available 24 hours a day Listen to anything you want to share or discuss Provide a non-judgemental, non-directive and confidential service Always help you find somewhere safe to stay – with or without children Present you with options and choices Provide information about housing, law, financial concerns, benefits, children etc. Accompany you to appointments with courts and solicitors Support you every step of the way in putting your life back together
CONTACT 0118 950 4003
BWA Helpline (24 hours a day) OR bwa@ukonline.co.uk
National Freephone Helpline (WAFE & REFUGE) 0808 2000 247
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CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU
The CAB is independent and impartial, and offers free and confidential advice on a wide range of topics:
Welfare Housing Legal Matters Debt Family and personal matters Disability/Community Care
CONTACT 08444 779980
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VICTIM SUPPORT
This is an independent National charity that helps people affected by crime. By providing free and confidential support and information they can help people deal with their experiences.
CONTACT 01344 41411
victimsupport.bracknell@virgin.net
0845 303 0900 National link
OR supportline@victimsupport.org.uk
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SAHARA ASIAN WOMEN’S PROJECT
Providing high quality support, advice and safe refuge to women and children who are experiencing domestic abuse.
CONTACT via the Samaritans on 0118 9266 333
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SAMARITANS
The Samaritans offer a totally confidential 24hr support service to anybody who is experiencing distress or despair and needs to talk about what they are going through. Anyone suffering from domestic abuse does not need to feel that they are alone.
CONTACT 01635 42452
or email jo@samaritans.org.uk
08457 090909 National link OR www.samaritans.org.uk
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SOLICITORS
There are a number of West Berkshire solicitors’ firms who are an active part of the West Berkshire Domestic Abuse Forum, and they will provide specialist legal services in cases of domestic abuse.
What can they do?
Offer Emergency Funding, (formerly known as legal aid) depending on circumstances Arrange injunctions against violent partners or ex-partners, even within 24 hours Provide legal advice to victims in specialist areas or family and marital law Organise court hearings Give formal support in official dealings with legal institutions
CONTACT
Gardener Leader 01635 508080
Charles Hoile 01635 45595
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SOCIAL CARE SERVICES
West Berkshire Social Services are now called Adult Social Care Services or Children’s Social Care Services.
The Council takes the lead in social care services providing support to people who may be at risk or vulnerable, so they can live safely in their community and reach their full potential.
Children’s Social Care Services
Children witness domestic abuse in different ways e.g. they may be present when an incident is taking place or they may be in another room and hear the abuse, or they may be injured themselves. All children witnessing violence are being emotionally abused and can experience both short and long term cognitive, behavioural and emotional effects as a result of witnessing domestic abuse.
Children and Young People’s Services can give information and advice about where to find help and arrange for essential services to provide support.
If you know of a child who is affected by domestic abuse:
Referral & Assessment Team
Office Hours 01635 503090
Out of Hours 01344 786543
Or www.westberks.gov.uk
Adult Social Care Services
We provide services for anyone aged 18 and over who has long term care or support needs arising from age, physical or sensory disabilities, learning disabilities or mental health problems. We also offer support to people who are caring for others, such as family and friends.
Anyone can become aware that vulnerable adults may be at risk of abuse and need to do something about it. Local Authorities, the Health Service and the Police now work together to try and prevent abuse occurring and to stop it when it does happen.
Contact 0845 6014726
or 01344 786543 (Out of Hours)
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HOUSING SERVICES
West Berkshire Council’s Housing Operations team is keen to help anyone with questions or difficulties with housing.
What can they do?
Provide information and advice about housing issues Play and active role in allocating places on the Housing Register Provide temporary accommodation, depending on specific circumstances
CONTACT 01635 519530 Office Hours
01344 786543 Out of Hours Emergency Service
Or www.westberks.gov.uk
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OTHER USEFUL ORGANISATIONS
Forced Marriage Unit 0207 0080 151
Advice and Assistance for those at risk of Forced Marriage
Gingerbread 0800 018 5026
A support group for lone parents
Rape Crisis 01256 840224
Support for female survivors of sexual abuse and abuse
Relate 0118 987 6161
Relationship counselling organisation for couples and families
Relateen 0118 987 6161
Relate for young people aged 11 to 18 years
Making Changes (Domestic Abuse Programme) 01635 264694
A 24 week programme for men who wish to address their abusive behaviour. Referrals can be personal or via an agency on this number
Home-Start West Berkshire 01635 500860
Support for families with young children
Health Visitors
You can speak to your health visitor about domestic abuse. Contact them via your GPs surgery
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THIS INFORMATION IS PROVIDED BY
SAFER COMMUNITIES PARTNERSHIP
West Berkshire
www.domesticabusewb.org.uk
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