Domestic Abuse
Domestic Abuse is Britain’s biggest hidden crime and one that overwhelmingly affects women and their children.
We know that Domestic Abuse is a serious public health issue and that the statistical information is shocking. For women aged 19 – 44 Domestic Abuse is the leading cause of morbidity greater than cancer, war and motor vehicle accidents.
89% of the victims who suffer sustained Domestic Abuse are female however we also know that Domestic Abuse affects the lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans gender community and male victims.
Please remember that you're not alone and domestic abuse is a crime. If you would like to speak in confidence please ring 01325 364486 - we are there to help you.
We recognise that many of the violent incidents which occur in Darlington occur within relationships. We have been working to increase the number of Domestic Abuse incidents that are reported, so help can be given to victims early on, and to reduce the number of repeat incidents.
Community Safety Partnership Activity
The Community Safety Partnership (CSP) is working hard to tackle domestic abuse.
The Domestic and Sexual Abuse Network meets on a bi-monthly basis to asses progress in tackling domestic abuse and work out what areas need development. This group is attended by a wide range of service providers and volunteers from across Darlington, it is also attended by guest speakers who give examples of best practice and government proposals that could improve the situation.
The CSP has also developed a Domestic Abuse Action Plan that includes, training and support programmes for victims and for people who work with victims such as those in the Council and Primary Care Trust. In addition to this the Action Plan a Domestic Abuse Strategy [pdf document] has been produced.
The Strategy has been developed in consultation with a wide range of agencies and includes and action plan, which sets out the key priorities for action to ensure that victims and their families are effectively supported and that perpetrators are dealt with appropriately
Help, Advice and Information
Domestic Abuse Helpline 01325 364486
Police (Darlington) 0845 6060365
In an Emergency Call 999
For Women
- Womens Aid [external link] - Nation Womens Domestic Violence Charity
RASAC - Rape and Sexual Abuse Counselling Centre Tel: 01325 354119
For Children
- The Hideout [external link] - Childrens site about domestic violence
- Kidscape [external link] - Escape site for children suffering bullying or DV
- Stop It Now [external link] - Prevention of Child Sex abuse
For Men
Other Links