Domestic abuse

Domestic abuse is when a family member or someone you're in a couple relationship with treats you in a way that harms you physically, emotionally or sexually. It can include:

  • physical violence such as hitting, kicking, pushing or chocking
  • emotional abuse and controlling behaviour such as stopping you seeing family or friends, being jealous or possessive, threatening, putting you down, bullying or blackmailing
  • sexual violence such as forcing you to do something you don't want to do, pressuring you to have sex, or making you watch pornography
  • financial abuse such as not letting you work or taking your money.

Domestic abuse happens in all communities to people from all backgrounds and anyone can be a victim.

Where to get help

If you're worried about violence or abuse from your partner, ex-partner or a member of your family you can get help and advice.

For help in an emergency call 999. You can also call the police on 101 in a non-emergency.

Plymouth Domestic Abuse Service (PDAS) and refuge

If you need support and protection from abuse call the Plymouth Domestic Abuse Service on 01752 252033 or the Plymouth refuge on 01752 562286. 

Women's Aid

If you're being abused or you're a family member of someone that's being abused call theWomen's Aid 24 hour helpline on 0808 2000 247.

Men's Advice Line

If you're a man experiencing domestic violence and abuse from a partner (or ex-partner) call theMen's Advice Line on 0808 801 0327.

Victim Support

If you're affected by abuse you can call Victim Support on 0808 168 9111.

Help for abusers

Respect phoneline

Respect phoneline is a confidential and anonymous helpline offering advice, information and support for anyone concerned about their violence and/or abuse towards a partner or ex-partner.

Ahimsa

Ahimsa is a local domestic violence programme for those who are violent and/or abusive towards a partner or ex-partner.

Free 24 hour helplines