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Domestic abuse can involve one‑off or repeated incidents of controlling, coercive, threatening, degrading or violent behaviour. This can include sexual violence. It is usually carried out by a current or former partner, but it can also be by a family member or a carer. Domestic abuse affects many people, and we take it very seriously.

Domestic abuse can include, but is not limited to:

  • 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

Our Domestic Abuse Policy sets out how we support customers affected by domestic abuse.

Our Anti-Social Behaviour and Hate Crime Policy includes information on how we respond to direct reports of domestic abuse from customers.

Visit the ‘Community safety’ webpage to read our Community Safety Service Standard and what you can expect from us.

Support for customers experiencing domestic abuse

If you report domestic abuse to us, we will respond within 24 hours.

Your safety is our top priority. We work closely with partner organisations to address the behaviour of any customer or household member causing harm, and to take the necessary steps to help keep you safe.

We may install additional security features in your home, such as upgraded door locks or extra door chains. We will also signpost you to specialist support services, such as Next Link, so you can access expert advice and help. We can also refer you to our own Support Services.

Safer Stronger North Somerset

We work closely with Safer Stronger North Somerset, a network of partners across North Somerset, to support people affected by domestic abuse. We refer people affected by domestic abuse to them as part of this partnership.

Get support

Cranstoun

Cranstoun offer interventions and support for people affected by domestic abuse. 

Next Link

Next Link offer safehouse and refuge accommodation across North Somerset for survivors and children fleeing high-risk domestic abuse. 

Family Action

A national charity that works from the heart of local community to support people through change, challenge and crisis. They provide therapeutic support to survivors, children, young people and adults.

 

Other services

As well as the services above, there are lots of other organisations that provide support and advise to help people affected by domestic abuse.

National Domestic Violence Helpline

A 24-hour helpline run by Women’s Aid and Refuge. It is a national service for women experiencing domestic violence, their family, friends, colleagues and others calling on their behalf.

Men's Advice Line

A helpline providing advice and support for men experiencing domestic violence and abuse from a partner or ex-partner.

GALOP (National LGBT Domestic abuse helpline)

A national Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans (LGBT) Domestic Violence helpline providing support to all members of LGBT communities, their family, friends, and agencies supporting them.

Women's Aid

A national charity for women and children, working to end domestic abuse.

The Survivor's Handbook from Women's Aid provides practical support and information for women experiencing domestic abuse.

Respect phoneline

A helpline offering advice, information and support for men who want to stop being violent and abusive towards their partner.

Bright Sky app

Bright Sky is a free to download mobile app providing support and information for anyone who may be in an abusive relationship or those concerned about someone they know.

For more information and to download the app, please see the details in your app store:

Useful information and related documents