Domestic violence and abuse
Domestic violence, sometimes called domestic abuse, is a serious problem. It is not just physical (slapping, punching or kicking), it can be someone trying to control what you do.
It can include sexual and emotional abuse.
An abuser may threaten you, control your money or use anything else to make you do things they want, including forcing you into marriage.
Domestic violence is not your fault and you are not alone.
Tell someone
Always call 999 in an emergency.
If you are a victim of domestic violence or you know a person who is suffering abuse, tell someone. There are many people who can help:
- ChildLine|
- Calderdale’s First Response Team for Child protection;
- Gateway to Care for Safeguarding adults;
- West Yorkshire Police, telephone 101; or
- West Yorkshire Police Safeguarding Unit, telephone 01422 337041.
Increase your safety
If you are still living with or have contact with your abusive partner, there are steps you can take to increase your personal safety (and that of your children). See Safety planning.
Advice and support
Confidential, non-judgemental support and advice is available whether you are a victim, a survivor or the person who is committing the abuse. The primary support for women and children in Calderdale is provided by:
- Name:
- Calderdale Women's Centre
23 Silver Street
Halifax HX1 1JN - Email:
- info@womencentre.org.uk
- Web site:
- WomenCentre|
- Telephone:
- 01422 323339.
Male victims of abuse can get help from:
- Name:
- Victim Support West Yorkshire
Bradford and Calderdale Branch
6 Park View Court
St Paul's Road
Shipley BD18 3DZ. - Email:
- enquiries@victimsupportbradford.org.uk
- Web site:
- Victim Support|
- Telephone:
- 01274 530544.
These organisations can put you in touch with other local and national organisations that can help you cope with and recover from your experiences. In addition, our online directories provide contact details for many such services:
- Family Services Directory (select ‘Someone to talk to’ or ‘Staying safe’)
- Social care and wellbeing hub (search for ‘domestic violence’).
Keeping yourself safe
If you have concerns about someone knowing you are reading this information, follow the advice given at Keeping Yourself Safe|. To avoid similar problems in the future, use a computer in a local library.
