Witney News - Domestic Abuse – Do you need help?

Domestic Abuse – Do you need help?

It is estimated that more than one in four women experience some sort of domestic abuse at some time in their life, and about 20% of all victims are men. It doesn't have to be a broken bone, a cut or a bruise. Often the most damaging form of abuse is when a partner bullies or belittles you, calling you names and putting you down. Or they might be very controlling, always wanting to know where you are, who you are with, what you are doing. At first it might seem like they really care about you, but you soon realise that they are jealous, possessive and don't want you to go out at all.

Finding yourself in an abusive relationship is very hurtful in more ways than one: you feel betrayed by someone you loved and who you believed loved you - you just want it to be OK again. It can be very hard to tell even close friends or family: you may feel embarrassed or worry that people won't believe you.

If you think that you, or someone you know, might need some help and advice, and you live in West Oxfordshire, then help is at hand in the form of the DOMESTIC ABUSE OUTREACH WORKER.

The Outreach Worker understands that everyone's case is different and that you are the best person to understand your situation. She will listen to you in total confidence. She will not try to make you change anything or do anything that you don't want to do: she will support you to get the help that you need to make the difference to your life that you want to make.

Don't think that your story is too trivial: if you are feeling threatened, victimised, bullied, controlled, belittled, isolated; if you feel you have to walk on eggshells around your partner; if your partner hits, pushes, kicks or slaps you; if you are in any way afraid of your partner - call the Outreach Worker and get some confidential support. It's FREE and it might just make the difference you need.

WEST OXON OUTREACH: 01993 709491 Tuesdays and Wednesdays: or leave a message anytime with a safe number and your call will be returned.

Other Useful Numbers/Websites:
Oxfordshire Women's Aid – 01865 778400 (Helpline 9am-5pm)
National 24 hour Domestic Violence helpline - 0808 2000247 (It's free and will not show on your telephone bill)
Police Domestic Violence Unit- 08458505505
www.womensaid.org.uk
www.reducingtherisk.org.uk