Domestic abuse
What is domestic abuse and controlling behaviour?
This is when someone uses threats, bullying or violence. It can also be when someone controls people through money, decides what they wear, where they go and who they see. If somebody in your family uses bullying or violence to get another adult to do what they want, that's domestic abuse.
If your boyfriend or girlfriend is under 16 and is being abusive such as making you do something sexual when you don't want to, or making you watch sexual material on the internet or television. This is relationship abuse.
Where can it happen?
It can happen in any family or relationship. It might not always be obvious this is happening. It can be very hard to deal with but remember that it's never your fault. If you live in a house where domestic abuse is happening this can be very upsetting and impact on your own well-being even if you do not see it happen.
If you’re experiencing domestic abuse it is very important to have a safe place that you can go to and a person you can trust that you can contact. It is important that you call 999 if you or someone else is at risk.
Want to find out more?
Contact Wakefield District Domestic Abuse Service on 0800 915 1561
Our domestic abuse leaflet is also full of helpful advice on what to do if you are in a domestic abuse situation
Local and National Services
Respect The helpline is for anyone who wants to make changes to their abusive behaviour. 0808 802 40 40
Rosalie Ryrie Foundation A voluntary sector service working with victims, children and perpetrators of domestic abuse. 01924 315 140
Compass Wakefield
Helps children, young people and families facing low mood, friendship problems, bullying, online bullying or feeling angry, lonely or sad before things get worse. Text BUZZ to 85258 for text messaging support, call 01924 665 093 or send off a referral form
Well Women Centre A women's only service that provides a wide range of support and advice including counselling and group support 01924 211114
Marie House Good quality local refuge accommodation for women and children who need to access safe, supported accommodation due to domestic abuse. 07843 344457
IDAT – Integrated Domestic Abuse Team 01924 431491 Support from Kirklees Council for Kirklees residents including counselling, legal advice and refuge accommodation.
Pennine Domestic Violence Group 0800 0527 222 Support services for those experiencing domestic abuse in the Pennine region. Kirklees Asian and Black Women's Welfare Association (KABWA) are also available on the same number.
Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) 0330 2233617 A police website giving information about sexual assault and where to get help in West Yorkshire.
NSPCC 0800 028 3550 (FGM helpline). Confidential support for anyone affected by or worried about Female Genital Mutilation.
Penny Appeal A free counselling service is offered through this charity for women who have been affected by any form of domestic abuse. Call 07480 970097 or email counselling@pennyappeal.org to find out more.
Women's Aid and Refuge These two key charities work together to provide the 24 hour National Domestic Violence Helpline 0808 2000 247. Both charities provide refuge accommodation throughout the country for women and children who may need to flee their homes due to domestic abuse.
Mankind Initiative 0182 333 4244 A confidential helpline for men who are experiencing domestic violence and abuse from female or male partners - the website provides support and information.
Men's Advice Line 0808 801 0327 A helpline for male victims of domestic abuse including forced marriage.
Karma Nirvana 0800 5999 247 A helpline for all victims and survivors of forced marriage and 'honour' based abuse.
National Centre for Domestic Violence 0800 970 2070 or text 60777 for a call back. Free, legal support to help protect survivors of abuse.
Victim Support
0300 303 1971 (West Yorkshire)
0808 1689 111 (National support line)
Support and information for domestic abuse victims; you don't have to be referred by the police or have a crime number.
Wakefield Safe Space
Provides support for anyone in crisis (16+). Phone, Zoom and Face to face support. Open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 6pm-12am- Caduceus House, WF1 4JZ
Phone: 07776 962815
Night OWLS
Confidential support line for children, young people, and parents/ carers. Available 8pm–8am every day.
Freephone 0800 1488 244
Text: 07984 392700
Click here to find our more or to go to the Night OWLS online messenger.