There are lots of agencies who can help. You can talk to someone in confidence and get support or information to help you to decide what to do. You won't be pressured to do anything you're not ready to do.
Freephone 24-hour National Domestic Violence Helpline run in partnership between Women's Aid and Refuge
0808 2000 247
Someone to talk to, support, information and access to temporary accommodation.
Website: Women's Aid
Website: Refuge
Shelterline
0808 800 4444
Someone to talk to, support, information and access to temporary accommodation.
Website: Shelterline
Samaritans
08457 90 90 90
24-hour confidential emotional support for anyone in crisis.
Website: Samaritans
Broken Rainbow
A telephone helpline for lesbians, gay men and bisexual or transgendered people experiencing domestic violence. It's staffed by workers from these communities.
Helpline: 08452 60 55 60 (Mon-Fri 9am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm )
Website: www.broken-rainbow.org.uk
Southall Black Sisters
020 8571 9595
Advice, support and help for black and Asian women.
Victim Support Line
0845 30 30 900
Support and information for victims of crime, whether or not they have reported it to the police.
Website: Victim Support Line
The Police
In an emergency dial 999. At other times, contact your local police station - you can find the number in the phone book. As well as dealing with the crime, they can arrange medical aid, transport and a safe place for you to go.
Rights of Women
020 7251 6577
Free legal advice for women experiencing domestic violence
Website: Rights of Women
Citizens Advice Bureau
Website: www.citizensadvice.org.uk
Immigration Advisory Service
Go to their website to get the right phone number for your area.
Website: Immigration Advisory Service
Reunite (for parents of abducted children)
0116 255 6234
Advice for parents whose children have been abducted or for parents who fear abduction.
For more numbers and full postal addresses see Links and Organisations.
Back to If it's happening to you
This article was last reviewed by Catherine Orr Deas in December 2005.
First published in February 2003.
