Get support for a victim of domestic abuse

If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call the Police on 211

If you are worried that someone is monitoring your online activity, the safest way to access information on the support available is to use a friend's device or a computer at work or at a library.

If you, or someone you know, is experiencing domestic violence, you can use this service to:

• get emergency assistance

• seek protection

• find support services

What is domestic abuse?

The term domestic abuse (sometimes referred to as domestic violence) is a single incident or a recurring pattern of controlling, coercive, threatening, degrading, or violent behaviour. It can be physical, emotional, financial and/or sexual abuse.

In most cases, a partner or ex-partner is the domestic abuser. Sometimes, the perpetrator is a family member or carer.

How and where to get the right support

The Police and the Family Conflict Unit (a specialist part of the Police) work together on issues concerning domestic abuse. But as a first step, here’s who you should contact depending on what you need.

Urgent assistance

If you are in immediate danger, you can call the:

• the Police on 211

• the Crisis Hotline on 435-8222

Ongoing protection

If you think you need to safeguard yourself and your children from abuse, harassment or threats, go to your nearest police station.

Shelter or financial support

If you are facing homelessness, or if you need financial support, call the Family Conflict Unit (part of the Police) on 435-8222 or 845-0623 or 836-5070

Black Rock Police Station Annex,
Saint Michael

What support might look like

The Police and the Family Conflict Unit will use their powers and take appropriate action. Every case is different, but here are ways they are able to help.

Open an investigation

For example, they might:

• record victim statements

• do a risk assessment focusing on the victim’s exposure to harm and the behaviour of the perpetrator

• interview those who may have witnessed the abuse or are involved in another way

Explain possible next steps to the victim

For example, they might explain the considerations around and the process of:

• prosecuting the aggressor

• applying for a protection order

Offer practical and emotional support

For example, the Police or Family Conflict Unit may:

• help victims apply for a protection order by completing the Protection Order Form 1 with them and taking a statement

• issue an emergency protection order (usually effective immediately and valid for 7 days). They may advise the victim to apply to the court for an extension of the protection order

• help victims relocate to a safe space

• help victims get medical attention

• help victims find trauma support such as counselling. They may also help victims apply for additional trauma-related support through the Victim Rights Form 7

• consulting with the Child Care Board (now referred to as the Social Empowerment Agency) on disputes involving children

Aftercare

The Police or Family Conflict Unit may offer risk management and follow-up support.