Information

Domestic Abuse information and contact details

As you will no doubt be aware, the home is not likely to be a safe place for many people affected by domestic abuse

…especially when there are going to be additional pressures on families due to illness, self-isolation, social distances, financial pressures and spending more time together without being able to leave the home for work or leisure activities.

It is likely to be more difficult for a victim to call and speak to someone for safety planning information or access a computer without alerting the perpetrator. Safer North Hampshire have provided some information for those trying to support someone. Alongside the specialist domestic abuse services, there are also details of the local Citizens Advice branches and housing teams as financial and housing concerns are likely to lead to increased pressure in households.

Hampshire Police Safety Planning leaflet
NE Hants Domestic Abuse Service directory
Basingstoke domestic abuse Service directory

Safety Planning

Alongside normal safety planning information, the following may be helpful if domestic abuse specialist services aren’t already involved and have agreed safety plans in place (for example if you are concerned about a work colleague / neighbour / client):

Consider setting up a system whereby the victim sends you a pre-determined code word by a certain time of day to let you know if they are OK (or not)
Agree with the victim what should happen if you don’t receive this message – eg should you alert the police / contact their designated safe person etc
Try to call the person regularly (if safe to do so), in order to reduce isolation
Reinforce the message to call 999 in an emergency