What is domestic abuse
The government definition of domestic violence and abuse is: “any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive, threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are, or have been, intimate partners or family members regardless of gender or sexuality. The abuse can encompass, but is not limited to: psychological, physical, sexual, financial, emotional.”
It isn’t always easy to recognise domestic abuse, even for those experiencing it first-hand. It often develops gradually over time. It can even start to feel normal and people can begin to accept the way they are being treated.
It’s important to be aware of the signs of abuse and to remember that it is never acceptable. Help is available. No one should have to face it alone.
Current Sutton Domestic Abuse Services
Domestic abuse support services over the holiday period
For some, Christmas is not something to look forward to as it means spending more time with those who make their lives miserable.
If you or anyone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, help is available.
You can call the Transform team on 020 8092 7569 Monday to Friday, between 9am and 5pm – with the exception of Christmas Day and the Christmas and New Year bank holidays.
Please call the Emergency Services on 999 if you feel you are in immediate danger.
Or you can call the FREE 24 Hours National Domestic Abuse Line on 0808 2000 247, or if you are low in mood, please talk to the Samaritans on 116 123.
You are not alone.
New service for men
Male only One Stop Shop
We have a new service for male victims and survivors of domestic abuse.
Every third Thursday of the month, 10am – 1pm
Masonic Hall
9 Grove Road
Sutton SM1 1BT
- No appointment necessary
- Free advice and support from qualified DA professionals
- Solicitor
Women only One Stop Shop
The One Stop Shop has Independent Domestic Abuse Advisers (IDVAs) who are available to offer face-to-face support and guidance to help you at drop-in sessions at Sutton Baptist Church, 21 Cheam Road, Sutton SM1 1SN on Wednesday mornings from 9.30am – 11.30am.
You can also complete an online referral into support by visiting: https://www.cranstoun.org/services/domestic-abuse/transform-sutton/
Victim Support
London Victim Assessment and Referral Service
Call 0808 168 9291 free for advice and support.
Opening times: Mon – Fri 8am–8pm and Sat 9am–5pm.
You can talk to them about domestic abuse and other crimes. This number is for South London including Beddington, Belmont, Carshalton, Cheam, Hackbridge, St Helier, Rosehill, Sutton, Wallington and Worcester Park.
National Domestic Abuse Helpline
Call 0808 2000 247 free 24 hour helpline.
Police
Call 999 if you are in immediate danger. Call 101 at all other times or you can report online by clicking here.
Domestic abuse is a crime and the police take it very seriously and want you to report it.
For information on other organisations that can help, including if you’re worried about your own behaviour, click here.