Wellbeing Wednesday: Domestic abuse – support is available

July 14, 2021

Domestic abuse is one person exerting power and control over another. Abuse may be psychological, physical, sexual, financial or emotional. Domestic abuse can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, ethnicity or sexual orientation.

Support is available so don’t suffer in silence:

• Call the 24-hour helpline for men and women on 0121 552 6448
• National domestic violence helpline can be called on free phone 0808 2000 247
• Mankind specialise in helping men escape domestic violence and can be contacted on 01823 334 244
• If you can’t make a phone call, you can text or WhatsApp message 07384 466 181 (9am-9pm weekdays)
• You can speak to an advisor via web chat (10am – 2pm weekdays) via blackcountrywomensaid.co.uk. Black Country Women’s Aid support women, men and children
• More online support materials and information is available at sandwell.gov.uk/domesticabuse
• If you are worried about your own behaviour towards others you can call the Respect Helpline on 0808 802 4040.

Note: In an emergency you should always call 999

Did you know the Domestic Abuse Act has changed: The Domestic Abuse Bill officially received a royal assent. This means the ‘landmark’ Domestic Abuse Act explicitly recognises children as victims if they see, hear or experience the effects of abuse and is designed to provide  greater protection to those who experience domestic abuse and to increase measures available to tackle perpetrators. You can click here for further details about the measures and its benefits.