In Suffolk, domestic abuse is the
most under reported of all violent crime and affects people
from all social, economic, and geographical backgrounds -
regardless of age, race, ethnicity, religious or sexual
orientation.
Domestic abuse is something which the Police and all
the community safety partners in Suffolk take seriously. It is a
crime and it should not be suffered in silence. Please report it so
that you can receive the sensitive support and assistance of those
who are committed to preventing and reducing domestic abuse.
Domestic abuse can take many forms, and can happen repeatedly.
If left unchallenged it can become more frequent and severe.
Domestic abuse can include physical, sexual or emotional abuse
and could involve some of the following behaviour:
- Actual or threat of physical harm.
- Deprivation of food, sleep or money.
- Biting, pushing, kicking, punching.
- Name calling and verbal threats.
- Sexual threats or forced sex.
- Use of weapons.
- Emotional blackmail.
- Isolation from family or friends.
- Imprisonment in your own home.
- Humiliation or belittlement.
- Using your children against you.
Getting help and advice
For comprehensive information and advice on where and how to get
help in Suffolk, visit the specially created
Break the Pattern website (new window).
- For emergencies - call the Police by dialing
999, they will respond, investigate and assist you. For
non-emergencies and advice ring 01473 613500
- Suffolk Domestic Violence and Abuse Helpline - 0800 783
5121 (calls are free).
- Ipswich Women's Aid and Women's Refuge - 01473 745111
(24 hours)
- .
- Suffolk Gay and Lesbian Helpline - 0808 808 2322 (calls
are free).
- National Domestic Violence Helpline - 0808 2000 247
(calls are free)
24 hour domestic violence helpline
for women, children and their supporters.
The Break the Pattern website has a
directory of phone numbers and helplines (new
window) of organisations that may be able to help you.
You may also find these links useful:
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Policies and other related documents