Domestic Abuse (violence) includes physical, sexual, emotional and financial abuse within all kinds of intimate relationships.

People experience domestic abuse (violence) regardless of their social group, class, age, race, disability, sexuality and lifestyle.

Domestic abuse (violence) can take a number of forms such as physical assault, sexual abuse, rape as well as threats and mental cruelty. Your partner may not give you money, constantly criticise you or forbid you to see your friends and family. They may be caring one day and aggressive the next. They may try to persuade you that the violence won’t happen again. But it may – and it is likely to get worse.

In June 2008, a new Warwickshire partnership initiative was created for people who are affected by domestic abuse (victims and perpetrators) called Warwickshire Against Domestic Abuse. You can find information on this intiative by visiting the new website www.talk2someone.org.uk

How to get help

If you are in urgent need of assistance call the police by dialling 999. If you wish to report an incident that is not an emergency or discuss your problems with a police officer contact Warwickshire Police on 01926 415000 or visit the Warwickshire Against Domestic Abuse website or call the county Domestic Abuse helpline on 0800 408 1552*

*PLEASE NOTE: Calls from most landlines to the Warwickshire Domestic Abuse Freephone number 0800 408 1552 are free and not itemised on bills. If in doubt, or you are calling from a mobile, please check with your telephone provider.