Practical help Catherine Orr Deas The links below give you an idea of the kinds of help available. If you want to talk it through with someone, there are lots of agencies who can do this with you. All the services available to assist domestic violence victims, except refuges, are for both men and women.

Housing

Leaving home temporarily - where can I go?

• Friends, family
• A refuge
• Local authority housing

Leaving home permanently

• What are my housing rights?

Staying in my home without my partner

• How can I get my partner out the property?
• How can I protect myself if I stay?

Money

• Finance - what are my rights if I separate from my violent partner?
• Benefits - what am I entitled to if I leave my partner?

Legal rights

There are 2 ways you can access the legal system, either through the police (criminal law) or a solicitor (civil law).

Criminal law

• The police and the Crown Prosecution service - what can they do?
• In court - who could support me if I have to give evidence?

Civil law

• Solicitors - what can they do and how do I find and pay for one?
• Injunctions - what are they and what can I use them for?
• Immigration status - will it be affected if I leave my violent husband?

For legal issues related to children see Children and your legal rights.

Other sources of support

• Social services - what can they do and I how can I contact them?
• Health professionals - what can they do to support me?

• For issues related to children see Sources of support.

Young adults and domestic violence

The Surgery - information, support and advice for young people.

Please note: Why this site refers mainly to women

This article was last reviewed by Catherine Orr Deas in December 2005.
First published in February 2003.