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If you are thinking about leaving an abusive relationship and are worried about your safety and that of your child, there is help available. Men have exactly the same rights as women to be safe in their own homes and are entitled to the same help.
Domestic violence can include physical abuse, sexual assault and verbal threats. It can also include more subtle attacks, such as constant breaking of trust, isolation, psychological games and harassment. It can affect partners in all types of relationships and can also involve violence between parents and children.
If you are in an abusive relationship, there are three important steps you can take:
In an emergency, you should call the police on 999 (minicom 0800 112 999). Domestic violence is treated very seriously by the police and the courts.
There are other people and organisations you can turn to if you are suffering from domestic violence. These can include your doctor, local support groups and charities. The following helplines can offer you practical help and advice including:
English National Domestic Violence helpline
0808 2000 247
Northern Ireland Women's Aid 24-Hour Domestic Violence Helpline
028 9033 1818
Scottish Domestic Abuse Helpline
0800 027 1234
Wales Domestic Abuse Helpline
0808 80 10 800
Male Advice and Enquiry Line
0845 064 6800
Your abuser may threaten that if you leave or tell anyone about the violence, your child will be taken away from you. Social Services will not take your child away for this reason.
If you fear your partner will abduct the child, get advice as soon as possible. Your local Women's Aid group, Law Centre, Citizens Advice Bureau or a solicitor can advise you on how to protect your child and how contact between your child and a violent partner can be restricted or supervised.
Under the Family Law Act 1996, you can apply for:
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