Domestic abuse

Domestic Abuse Poster October 2008

Help for victims of domestic abuse

Domestic abuse accounts for around one-quarter of all violent crime in Surrey Heath. A major priority for the Safer Surrey Heath Partnership is to increase the numbers of people coming forward to seek help and support for domestic related incidents, and to reduce the number of repeat victims. The Partnership contributes an annual grant towards funding an outreach worker for Surrey Heath, and towards the running of the Sanctuary Scheme.

Outreach Service

Surrey Women's Aid (SWA) has employed an outreach worker for Surrey Heath since September 2003, offering practical help and emotional support, as well as advice about housing rights, the legal system, relationships and separation, safety planning and support for children. There are currently 18 fully trained and operational volunteers running the out-of-hours helpline. The team received 2,063 calls during 2007/08, compared with 1,915 calls between April 2006 and March 2007.

The SWA outreach team offers a multi-agency response through joint working with local police, social services, health and other statutory and voluntary agencies where appropriate. This includes referral to the Sanctuary Scheme via Surrey Heath Borough Council. Outreach users have also benefited from parenting courses and self-esteem courses with crèche facilities. Informal support groups are also offered. The team supports all victims/survivors of domestic abuse regardless of age, race or gender.

The number of people being referred to outreach services in Surrey Heath is growing year on year. In 2006/07, the outreach team received 165 referrals of both men and women affected by domestic abuse. This figure rose to 239 during 2007/08 - an increase of 45 per cent.

To talk to someone about domestic abuse, ring SWA's 24-hour helpline on 01483 776822. You can also email help@surreywomensaid.org.uk or visit www.surreywomensaid.org.uk

Download the Women's Aid Survivors Handbook in other languages HERE Opens in a new window

Useful numbers

In an emergency call 999

For a copy of the Safer Surrey Heath Partnership's leaflet, Live Without Fear, telephone 01276 707359 or email nicola.collinson@surreyheath.gov.uk. Alternatively, download a PDF copy from this site under 'Crime Prevention Advice'.