What is domestic abuse?
It takes many forms, is never acceptable and includes psychological, emotional, physical, financial, sexual and verbal abuse. If you’re suffering domestic abuse (DA), you’re likely to feel isolated, hurt, upset and scared. It includes any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are, or have been, intimate partners or family members regardless of gender or sexuality.
What help is on offer?
New Era is the free, confidential Domestic Abuse (DA) service operating across Staffordshire and Stoke- on-Trent, providing help and support for victims, perpetrators and their families.
Support for Victims of Domestic Abuse
Specialist help for victims is provided by Victim Support and is available 24-hours a day, 7-days a week, regardless of whether a report has been made to the police or not. The service also provides a live chat facility. The first step to getting help is to call 0300 303 3778 or to use the live chat facility accessible through the New Era website and make contact with someone right now. The Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Domestic Abuse Strategy 2017 – 2020 sets out the joint vision, approach and aims for addressing domestic abuse.
If you would like more information on the help available you can download further information here.
Services for perpetrators wanting to change their behaviour
Anyone that’s displaying unhealthy or abusive behaviour within their relationship and wants to change this can access help from New Era, even those under 16 years of age needing help with healthy relationships. Perpetrator support is provided by the Staffordshire & West Midlands Community Rehabilitation Company; the Reducing Re-Offending Partnership (RRP) and is based on the voluntary participation of the perpetrator.
The first step to getting help is to contact New Era Perpetrator services on 01785 601690.
Further information on the services available can be found on the New Era website.
I manage a workplace and want to support my staff who may suffer abuse at home
The workplace can often be the only safe place for those living with domestic abuse. Someone suffering abuse may be distracted, arrive late, leave early or miss work altogether. A free workplace champion training programme is available to businesses in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent to help them spot the signs that an employee may need help.
In an emergency dial 999.