Domestic Violence

Domestic Violence affects people across all social, economic, geographical, racial and religious boundaries.  One in four women experience violence at some time in their lives, and men can also suffer from domestic violence.  Domestic violence can include physical, sexual or emotional abuse.

Anyone in the Shrewsbury and Atcham area who is seeking refuge from violence at home can contact Severnside Housing.  The Homelessness Officer will ensure that alternative accommodation is available and if necessary, help arrange furniture removal and storage.

IN AN EMERGENCY PHONE 999

Agency Contact Numbers

Direct Links to Women's Aid web pages

General Information

• What is domestic violence?
• Recognising domestic violence
• Making a safety plan
• I am experiencing domestic violence. What can I do about it?

Finding Help

• What can Women's Aid do for me?
• Where can I go? Housing options
• What is a refuge and how can I stay in one?
• How can I help a friend who is experiencing domestic violence?

Taking Legal Action

• Your legal rights
• Getting an injunction
• Police and the criminal prosecution process

Helping Your Children

• Children and domestic violence
• Making arrangements for children after separation: The role of family courts

Special Circumstances

• Women from black and minority ethnic communities
• Immigration issues
• Disabled women
• Lesbian and bisexual women

Health and Well-being

• Domestic violence and your physical health
• Domestic violence and your mental health
• Alcohol and other drugs
• Surviving after abuse: Looking after yourself and moving on

Other

• National Domestic Violence Helpline

Direct Links to Men's Aid web pages

• Abduction
• Child Abuse
• Domestic Abuse
• Family Law
• False Allegations
• Sex Discrimination

Useful links

• NSPCC website
• Women's Aid Website
• Refuge - domestic violence help for women and children
• Men's Aid Website
• Men's Advice Line
• Domestic Violence Factsheet from BBC Shropshire (PDF)

Useful numbers

Axis
Provide a locally based, accessible and confidential counselling service for men and women aged 13 years or over.
Axis has a an experienced team of qualified counsellors, who have been specifically trained to help our clients overcome the traumatic events of their childhood. All members of the Axis team are specifically chosen not only for their experience and qualifications but for their caring and understanding for survivors of CSA. Counselling is provided on a face to face basis within a friendly, safe and secure counselling environment.

The Samaritans
Shrewsbury - 01743 369696, National Helpline - 08457 909090.  The Samaritans is a nationwide charity that provides 24-hour confidential emotional support for anyone in crisis.

Freecall message home - 0800 700740 -  This is a confidential, non-traceable service for those who have left home but want to pass on a message to family and friends without communicating directly.  Women escaping domestic violence can use this service without having to give details of where they are.  This is a free service.

The NSPCC Child Protection Helpline - 0808 800 5000.  This is a free, confidential service for anyone concerned about children at risk, including children themselves.  The service offers counselling, information and advice.

Careline - 0208 514 1177.  A national, confidential counselling line for children, young people and adults on any issue including family, marital and relationship problems, child abuse, rape and sexual assault, depression and anxiety.

Victim Support - 0845 3030900.  A free and confidential service giving emotional and practical support at home and during court proceedings.  There is an answerphone out of hours.

The Government is committed to addressing issues surrounding domestic violence.  Please visit the Home Office website for further information and advice.