Domestic Abuse

Domestic Abuse is the abuse of someone within an intimate or family relationship. It is the repeated, random and habitual use of intimidation to control another person - usually a partner, ex-partner or other family member.  The abuse can be physical, emotional, psychological, financial or sexual. Anyone forced to alter their behaviour because they're frightened of someone's reaction is being abused.

More information about Domestic abuse as well as contact details are available on the Darlington Domestic Abuse Network pages

Housing Services - Telephone 01325 388542

Out of Hours Homeless Emergency Number 0870 2402994

We will:

  • Provide advice and support to anyone experiencing domestic abuse
  • We will not accept any form of domestic abuse in any of our homes
  • We will encourage people experiencing domestic abuse to get help and support to make sure they are not in any danger.
  • We will help any person experiencing domestic abuse through the homelessness legislation and our tenancy agreement.

When you contact us about your housing need:

  • You can ask to speak to "Anita" (this is a password) staff will then know domestic abuse is an issue and this ensures a discussion will not take place in a public waiting area 
  • Interviews will take place in rooms which are private, we can visit you in your home if this is appropriate or we can meet you in an alternative location. 
  • Officers of the same sex will be available to conduct the interview if this is required
  • Interpreters can be arranged by appointment
  • All applications will be dealt with in a sympathetic manner
  • Contact will never be made with the perpetrator of the violence
  • Your address will never be disclosed to a third party
  • Housing advice will be offered
  • Temporary accommodation may be appropriate

Homelessness due to Domestic Abuse

If you live in Council Housing and you make a homeless application due to fleeing domestic abuse you will be making important decisions about your future housing and safety. Please remember that if your application is accepted for homeless priority you will have 8 weeks to bid on suitable accommodation.  If you haven't found anywhere after 8 weeks, we will make a direct offer.  We will take into consideration any safety concerns.

If you refuse your offer without good reason your homeless priority may be removed

 

Campaign to highlight abuse between teenagers [external link]

Gypsy & Traveller Leaflet [pdf document]