Domestic abuse

Victims of domestic abuse suffer on many different levels and can live their lives constantly in fear.

Domestic abuse is believed to be extremely under-reported. Statistics show that it accounts for a quarter of all violent crime and has more repeat victims than any other crime.

Victims of domestic abuse are be encouraged to report the incident to their local police on 0845 125 2222 or in an emergency dial 999. However it is recognised that many will suffer in silence on many occasions before they are prepared to make a formal complaint to the police. Some will never make a complaint to the police.

The National Helpline 0808 2000 247 (which was launched in December 2003) operates on a 24-hour freephone basis. It joins the existing help lines of Women's Aid and Refuge and now offers both women and children help in finding emergency accommodation, information, planning on safety issues as well as a translation service.  If you would like to call Surrey Women's Aid direct their number is 01483 776822.

If you are a victim or are a concerned relative or friend of a victim, you can contact the national helpline for advice. This operates on a call back service.

If you are worried about losing your home, you can visit a member of Woking Borough Councils Housing Options Team.

For male victims of domestic abuse, support can be provided by Men's Aid. They can be contacted on 01334 474348 or by email support@mensaid.org Men's Aid is run by volunteers and is open Monday to Friday 10am-3pm.

For lesbians, gay men, bisexuals and transgender people experiencing domestic abuse support is available from Broken Rainbow on 07812 644 914 or by email lgbtdv@btopenworld.com