Are you experiencing Domestic Violence?

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Domestic violence accounts for a quarter of all recorded violent crime in England & Wales. Here at Thames Valley Housing we recognise the impact such violence can have on people's lives and we can play an important role in supporting victims and tackling domestic violence through our contacts.

What is Domestic Violence?

The Home Office defines domestic violence as 'Any violence between current and former partners in an intimate relationship wherever and whenever it occurs. The violence may be physical, sexual, emotional and financial abuse.'

Domestic violence can happen in any kind of relationship. It is normally carried out by men on women but this is not always the case. If personal relationships lead to abuse, the situation is hard to cope with. If you are afraid of someone with whom you have had or are having a close personal relationship, whether they live with you or not, you are entitled to support and information to help you make choices about safety.

• Recognise that domestic violence is happening to you and that it's unacceptable.
• Know that you are not alone and there are people who can help.
• Think about your and your children's safety.
• Accept that you are not to blame. The perpetrator is responsible for their own actions.

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You do not have to be in a relationship with the person to experience domestic violence. Some people continue to abuse their ex-partner after a relationship has ended.

It can be difficult to ask for help as victims may feel it is their fault, however this kind of abuse is always a crime.

Could this be you?

• Does your partner hit you or push you around?
• Do they threaten to hurt you, your children, your friends, family or pets, or even themselves?
• Do they put you down and make you feel bad about yourself?
• Are they jealous and possessive?
• Do they control all the money?
• Do they stop you from studying or taking a paid job?
• Do they humiliate or degrade you in front of others?
• Do their moods rule your home and your life?
• Do they hurt you sexually, or force you to do things you don't enjoy?
• Does their family also abuse you, or back them up?
• Are you often anxious, afraid, depressed, or confused?

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Remember in an emergency, ring 999.

Thames Valley Housing will treat any reports of domestic violence in the strictest confidence. We believe that action should be taken against domestic violence but we promise to listen to the victims when deciding what action should be taken.

Protection:

The following protection is available to victims of domestic violence through Thames Valley Housing:

• Money available to make your property more secure.
• 'Safe rooms' for those at risk of domestic violence.
• Working with victims to get court orders, so that victims will have the support and protection of the legal system.
• TVH Officers can seek injunctions against the perpetrator and possession action can also be started on a perpetrator in possession of a home after the victim has left as a result of domestic violence.

Support:

The following support is available to victims of domestic violence through Thames Valley Housing:

• We encourage reports of domestic violence and provide training to staff to help them identify violent relationships at an early stage.
• Victims of domestic violence will be prioritised for rehousing through the transfer system (Arrears are not necessarily a barrier to those being moved on grounds of domestic violence).

If you wish to report an incident of domestic violence to a TVH Officer, please call 0800 358 7767 now.

You will be dealt with by the same officer where possible and every call is treated in the strictest confidence.
Children and close family members can also be affected by domestic violence. Please contact one of the organisations below where officers can offer you the support and assistance you need.

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You can download our Domestic Violence policy which is at the foot of the page.

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Useful Contacts:

Remember, in an emergency, ring 999
Domestic Violence Helpline - 0808 2000 247
Childline - 0800 1111 or http://www.childline.org.uk/
Shelter - 0808 800 4444 or http://england.shelter.org.uk/advice/advice-142.cfm
http://www.refuge.org.uk/
http://www.relate.org.uk/

For legal advice, please go to the Crown Prosecution Service Website;
www.cps.gov.uk/

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