- New Enquiries
Domestic Abuse Awareness Month
October typically welcomes the ‘spooky’ season and winter months, however it is also Domestic Abuse Awareness Month. This is recognised annually to raise awareness about domestic violence and abuse and more importantly, how to recognise it, how to report it and to encourage individuals suffering to speak up.
What is domestic violence?
Domestic violence is classified as any type of violent behaviours that takes place between people who are in (or have been in) an intimate relationship, family members or those who live together (cohabitants). It is important to recognise that domestic abuse is not always physical, and can include emotional, psychological, sexual, and financial abuse. This is why the term ‘domestic violence’ is now widely referred to as ‘domestic abuse’. The law now acknowledges that emotional and financial abuse is just as harmful as physical violence.
What if I suspect someone has a history as a perpetrator of abuse?
If you are concerned that someone you are in a relationship with, or about to enter a relationship with, might have a history of domestic abuse, you can make a Clare’s Law application to the police. It is common for perpetrators with a history of domestic abuse to either have convictions or have been reported to the police for an offence in the past. This scheme allows you to have information disclosed to you so that you can make informed decisions about yourself.
What if I suspect someone is in an abusive relationship?
The Clare’s Law scheme can also be used if you suspect someone is in an abusive relationship. You can make the Clare’s Law application on their behalf, and if appropriate the police will contact the person you suspect is a victim to make the necessary disclosure to them.
Visit our article below for more information about this scheme:
How can I protect myself?
The first step is to report the incidents to the police, they can offer you protection and support, including making referrals on your behalf for further specialist support.
There are applications which can be made to the Family Court to ensure you are protection. Namely an Occupation Order or Non Molestation Order.
Visit our article below for more information about these protective Orders:
Non Molestation and Occupation Orders
What support is available for victims?
At Johnson Astills we can offer you legal advice and support, however there is a wide range of additional support services out there for victims of domestic abuse. This includes support with housing, welfare, keeping safe and signposting you and making referrals to other agencies.
Many professionals, such as the police, medical staff, health visitors and teachers can signpost and put you in touch with specialist domestic abuse and sexual violence support services. A few local organisations who can offer support to victims, include:
- Living Without Abuse – Helpline – 0808 80 200 28 (Monday – Sunday 8am – 8pm); or alternatively you can complete their contact form via the following link: https://lwa.org.uk/contact-lwa/
- The Adam Project – who are dedicated to supporting male victims who are living in Leicestershire – Helpline: 07912 495 159
- Women’s Aid Leicester – 0116 283 2225
How can Johnson Astills help?
If you or someone you know is being subjected to domestic abuse, please get in touch with Johnson Astills today and we would be more than happy to discuss your situation further. Please call us at our office in Leicester on 0116 255 4855 or our office in Loughborough on 01509 610 312 and ask to speak to a member of the Family Team. Alternatively, you may prefer to email us at legal@johnsonastills.com or fill in our enquiry form.