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Help and support for domestic abuse


This is a difficult and worrying time for everyone – but particularly so for adults and children living with abuse, and the professionals working hard to support them.

Would you know whether a friend or family member was being abused? Domestic abuse can be very subtle. But, if you know the signs, you may be able to help:

  • Fear of their partner, references to their partner’s anger
  • Personality changes (e.g. an outgoing person becomes withdrawn)
  • You may see a lot less of someone
  • Absence from work, school or social events

If you, or anyone you know, need support and advice, please visit Devon and Cornwall Police’s domestic abuse support page or contact Devon Victim Care. And it’s important to stress that if you’re in an abusive relationship, you can still ask for help during lockdown – this includes parents who may be being abused by their own children.

Devon’s regional domestic violence and abuse support charity, Splitz, also continue to offer support to anyone suffering abuse, while the NSPCC also has guidance on how to keep children safe from abuse. Additionally, please also note that Boots chemists are offering safe spaces within their pharmacies for victims of domestic abuse.

If you’re worried about your own behaviour, Respect Phoneline offer support for perpetrators to help change abusive behaviours. Respect Phoneline also offer a range of help and guidance for victims and families.

SafeLives also have resources for parents, children families and practitioners available on their website. New resources are being added every day, and you can sign up for updates. You can also join SafeLives’s community platform to access webinars and resources as well as to network with others across the country.

More information about domestic abuse is available on the Devon and Cornwall Police website, and Safer Devon have updates on the latest campaigns to make our county a safer place.


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