Domestic Violence

Domestic abuse is: "Physical, psychological, sexual or financial violence that takes place within an intimate or family type relationship and forms a pattern of coercive and controlling behaviour"It also includes forced marriage and 'honour crimes'.It is important to emphasise that although statistics show that domestic abuse is most commonly perpetrated by men against women, it can also be instigated by women against men.Abuse or violence may also take form in same sex, bi-sexual or transgender relationships and can also include children.It is the Council's belief that every person has a right to be safe from fear of abuse. We also believe that:

• Domestic violence is completely unacceptable and should not be tolerated;
• Violence in relationships is an abuse of power as well as likely to be a criminal offence;
• Anyone experiencing domestic violence should be supported and protected from further abuse;

The Domestic Abuse Forum

Charnwood Domestic Abuse Forum is a multi-agency forum, with representatives from statutory, voluntary and private sector organisations, working together across Charnwood borough to address issues surrounding domestic abuse in the community.

The aims of the Forum are to:

1. provide an arena for the exploration and discussion of issues surrounding domestic abuse
2. offer an opportunity for people working in and around the field of work of domestic abuse to meet together to update on current activities, se any concerns and to share good practice
3. bring together individuals from a wide range of organisations and agencies across all sectors (voluntary, not-for-profit, statutory or private) of service provision
4. update individuals (organisations and agencies) on new domestic abuse legislation and local services
5. focus on specific areas of concern in the field of work and explore opportunities to plan and initiate any appropriate actions
6. where appropriate, link discussions and actions with existing and proposed strategies across all sectors
7. work, wherever possible, to increase levels of understanding of the issues surrounding domestic abuse, and provide training opportunities where appropriate
8. work to maintain an active representation of those working in and around the field of work of domestic abuse

There are many agencies that deal with domestic violence, however, in an emergency call the Police on 999.
If you want confidential help and advice at other times call:

• Police (Ask for Victim Liaison Officer) 0116 222 2222
• Leicester Domestic Violence Helpline 0116 255 0004
• Women's Aid & Refuges 01509 237206
• Women's Aid National Helpline (24 hrs) 08457 023468
• Social Services 01509 266 641
• Citizens Advice 0870 1202 402
• Victim Support 01509 268545
• Welfare Benefits Agency 01509 831000
• Domestic Violence Integrated Response Project 0116 255 0004
• Child Line 0800 1111
• NSPCC Help Line 0800 800 500
• Samaritans 0345 909090