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Domestic violence and abuse

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Domestic violence and abuse

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In Suffolk, domestic violence accounts for more than a third of all violent crime and affects people from all social, economic, and geographical backgrounds - regardless of age, race, ethnicity, religious or sexual orientation.

Domestic violence is an issue which the Police and all its community safety partners 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 violence.

Domestic violence and abuse can take many forms, and can happen repeatedly. It is a cycle of abuse that, if left unchallenged, will become more frequent and severe. Domestic violence 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, visit the specially created Suffolk Domestic Violence Forum 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.

National Domestic Violence Helpline: 0808 2000 247 (calls are free)
24 hour confidential domestic violence helpline for women, children and their supporters.

Suffolk Domestic Violence and Abuse Helpline: 0800 783 5121 (calls are free)

Ipswich Women's Aid (new window) 24 hour helpline : 01473 745111

The Suffolk Domestic Violence Forum website has a directory of phone numbers and helplines (new window) of organisations that may be able to help you.

Survivors Stories DVD

The Survivors Stories DVD is a collection of 13 interviews given by female and male survivors of domestic violence and abuse from across the UK. It is designed as an educational training tool for all professionals working with people for whom domestic violence and abuse is an issue and to publicise the issues and raise awareness to the community at large. It is hoped that it will provide a message of hope to any victim who may hear these interviews. For more information and to see video clips (new window) from the DVD go to the Survivors Stories website.

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