October is national Domestic Abuse Awareness Month, helping to raise awareness of domestic abuse and the impact it has on entire communities.
Cllr Shelley Powell, Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods, said: “National Domestic Abuse Awareness Month is an opportunity to raise awareness of the signs to look out for around domestic abuse as well as the support available to help those who may be suffering from domestic abuse. The devastating consequences of domestic violence can cross generations and last a lifetime. It’s important to know that you’re not alone and help and support is available.”
What is domestic abuse?
Domestic abuse is a pattern of behaviours which take place within an intimate or family relationship, making it difficult for the person experiencing abuse to have control over their own life or leave the relationship. These behaviours can be controlling, coercive, threatening, degrading or violent.
Your friend or family member may be unsure if they are experiencing domestic abuse. If it is safe to do so, you could share types of abuse with them to help them come to terms with what they are experiencing. Try to keep in mind that they might not be ready to accept that their partner or relative is abusive yet.
Domestic abuse can include, but is not limited to, the following:-
- Coercive control(a pattern of intimidation, degradation, isolation and control with the use or threat of physical or sexual violence)
- Psychological and/or emotional abuse
- Physical or sexual abuse
- Financial or economic abuse
- Harassment and stalking
- Online or digital abuse
Where can I get help and support?
In an emergency, dial 999. If you are unable to speak, cough, tap the handset or press 55 and the operator will put you through to the police.
Knowsley Council Safer Communities Service (Specialist Domestic Abuse Service)
Tel: 0151 443 2610
Enquiries.safercommunities@knowsley.gov.uk
The First Step (Independent Specialist Domestic Abuse Service)
Tel: 0151 548 3333
Website: www.thefirststep.org.uk
Knowsley Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub
Tel: 0151 443 2600
Further support is also offered by these national agencies:
victimcaremerseyside.org (directory of services)
Women’s Aid | womensaid.org.uk | https://www.womensaid.org.uk/information-support/
National Domestic Violence Helpline: 0808 2000 247 (24 hours).
Worst Kept Secret Helpline: 0800 028 3398.
Refuge (includes information for men) | refuge.org.uk | 0808 200 0247 (24 hours)
The Men’s Advice Line, for male domestic abuse survivors – 0808 801 0327.
National LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline – 0800 999 5428.
Samaritans (24/7 service) – 116 123.
RASASC – Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre – National phone line 0330 363 0063 & Knowsley phone line Knowsley 0151 218 7960