Domestic abuse affects at least one in four women in Surrey and one in six men nationally. Children and young people are also affected by domestic abuse. On average, a woman will be assaulted 35 times before reporting the abuse, and domestic violence is a factor in 1 in 4 suicide attempts by women.
How does it affect people?
Domestic abuse presents itself in a variety of often deep, complex and subtle ways. Even if physical abuse is not involved, the fear of abuse can be enough to control, intimidate and isolate a victim. Domestic abuse can range from emotional, psychological or sexual and occurs irrespective of gender, class and age. It usually takes place within a family relationship, or between partners or ex-partners and involves the power and exercise of control by one person over another.
Domestic abuse can also affect victims’ housing, health, education and the freedom to live freely and without fear. Different forms of abuse can distort the victim’s sense of reality, so that they convince themselves that the abusive behaviour is acceptable, or is their fault and that there is no way out of the situation.
The Safer Guildford Partnership funds a dedicated Domestic Abuse Outreach Service which works with women, and also children and men, who are, or have been, experiencing domestic abuse in the local community.
The service supports people in Guildford by giving practical and emotional support and acting as advocates for women going through legal and other matters. The service has a ‘one-stop shop’ approach to supporting families, recognising that domestic abuse can impact on every aspect of a victim’s life.
Pauline, one of the two outreach workers says:
“Victims, male and female, need support from someone they can trust who will listen to them in confidence, and without judgement. We are here to give practical advice, help and real support to victims of abuse. We want people to know that they don’t have to suffer in silence, they can pick up the phone and talk to us. We are available Monday – Saturday and can be reached on telephone number: 01483 577 392.”
Don't suffer in silence
If you are being frightened, hurt or abused by a partner or family member, or know someone who is, please consider calling one of the telephone numbers below:
- In an emergency, dial 999
- Surrey Domestic Abuse helpline 01483 776822 (24 hours a day)
- Guildford Domestic Abuse Outreach Service 01483 577392
- Guildford Victim Support 01252 326 052
- Victim Support Surrey 0845 3030 900
- Surrey Police 0845 125 2222
- Male Advice Line 0845 064 6800
Or more information can be gained from the website www.surreycsu.org.uk.