Domestic abuse

Domestic abuse covers a range of types of abuse, including, but not limited to, psychological, physical, sexual, economical or emotional abuse. Domestic abuse can be prosecuted under a range of offences and describes a range of controlling and coercive behaviours, used by one person to maintain control over another with whom they have, or have had, an intimate or family relationship. Domestic abuse is rarely a one-off incident. It is not your fault and you are not alone.

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Domestic abuse is a strand of violence against women and girls (VAWG). VAWG is both a form of discrimination and a violation of human rights. VAWG strands covered by Tower Hamlets include:

• Domestic abuse

• Sexual abuse

• Trafficking for the purposes of sexual exploitation

• Prostitution

• Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)

• Honour based abuse

• Forced marriage

• Dowry related abuse

• Stalking and harassment

75 per cent of victims of abuse in Tower Hamlets are women but we also recognise that boys and men are victims of violence too.

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Safety advice if you are living with your abuser

• Keep your phone charged and on you at all times
• Ensure phone credit is topped up
• Keep away from the kitchen if trying to find a safe space / avoid your abuser
• Speak to a trusted neighbour about the situation and ask them to call 999 if they hear loud noises/arguments
• At the first sign of abuse call 999 for help

The Women's Aid website has safety advice and a COVID-19 safety guide

If your abuser has access to your phone/internet access, please delete your browsing history after you have visited the site

Worried about a friend or neighbour

If you are worried that your friend or neighbour is experiencing domestic abuse you can:

• Reach out to the victim and let them know that you care
• Ask the victim if they are ok
• Call 999

You could be the person that makes a difference.

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Local support

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National support

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Other VAWG support

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Information or advice about a court case

If you require information or advice about a court related case, please contact the Police Officer in charge or your IDVA/Support Worker.

Perpetrators of abuse

If you are worried about how you are treating your partner or family member and want to stop your behaviour, you can contact Respect

Tel: 0808 802 4040

Email: info@respectphoneline.org.uk

They also have a live Webchat available (various times).

Professionals - how to make a referral

• Domestic Violence Referral & Monitoring Form (DV1 Form)

• Guidance on completing the DV1 form

• Domestic Violence & Abuse Service Directory

Contact information

Tel: 0800 279 5434
Email: domestic.violence@towerhamlets.gov.uk