Accessing support and advice within the London Borough of Merton
What is domestic abuse?
Domestic abuse is threats, violence, and coercive or controlling behaviour between people who have a relationship with each other (or have had in the past). It can happen between partners, within families or shared homes. Both men and women can be affected. It happens within heterosexual, gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender relationships. It happens between people of all cultures, religions or social groups. It's based on one person having power or control over another, and it often gets worse over time.
Some organisations use the word 'violence' instead of 'abuse'. These terms are interchangeable.
Domestic abuse takes many forms including (but not limited to) physical, sexual, emotional and financial abuse. It also includes digital abuse (using smartphones and social networking to harass and intimidate).
A few facts
Studies show that one in four women and one in six men will experience domestic abuse during their life – the police will get a call every minute from someone who is experiencing domestic abuse.
Domestic abuse victims are often made to feel like that they won't be believed or are threatened with further abuse – either toward the victim, their children or even family – if they tell anyone about what is happening. On average a victim of domestic abuse will have been assaulted 35 times before contacting the police.
In a large number of cases, children are often present in the home when a parent is being abused, either being directly harmed themselves or being witnesses to the abuse.
The effects on children
We should not underestimate the impact of domestic abuse on children. In a large number of cases children are present in the home when an adult is being abused.
If you are facing an emergency, phone the police on 999.
The effects on children
We should not underestimate the impact of domestic abuse on children. In a large number of cases children are present in the home when an adult is being abused.
Your safety
All the organisations listed will be able to offer information on staying safe.
For support from an Independent Domestic Violence Advocate (IDVA), please call 020 7801 1777 and ask to speak with somebody from the Merton team.
Alternatively call 0808 168 9111 to self-refer to Victim Support.
For legal advice relating to domestic abuse and family law, such as non-molestation orders, child arrangements, divorce and immigration matters please call 020 8543 3302.
If you are experiencing domestic abuse as well as other disadvantages such as drugs, alcohol, or severe mental health, please call the Refuge complex needs team on 0208 943 8188.
If you have experienced any kind of sexual violence, at any point in your life and would like to talk to someone please contact the RASASC Outreach service on 07437 330 784 by text or WhatsApp.
If you need Benefits advice, please go online to Gov.uk
If you have any queries relating to a current Universal Credit Claim please call 0800 328 5644.
If you are facing an emergency, phone the police on 999 or if you need to report a crime call 101