Domestic Abuse

What is domestic abuse?

Broadly it's any incident of threatening behaviour (which might involve violence) which happens in a family or other close relationship.

The abuse can be:

• mental
• emotional
• financial
• physical
• sexual

Female genital mutilation and forced marriage are also seen as domestic violence in UK law.  

What to do if you're a victim

If you're in an abusive relationship, you need to:

• recognise that it is happening to you
• accept that you are not to blame
• get help and support

What to do if you're an abuser

• Contact Respect
  (tel 0808 802 4040) for advice on how to stop the abuse.

Local contacts

• Police - Gloucestershire Constabulary have specialist units with trained officers all over the county. They are the first people to call in an emergency situation. Ring 0845 090 1234 or 999 in emergency.
• Gloucestershire Central Allocation & Referral Point - tel 0845 6029035. Can advise you on who might help.
• GDVSAP - 7-day helpline (but NOT open all hours) if you're suffering domestic abuse: 01452 500115
• Stroud Woment's Refuge (01453 764385) - support and refuge accommodation to women and their children who are fleeing domestic abuse.