Domestic Abuse
Don’t suffer in silence!! Get help now if you are over 55 and experiencing domestic abuse!!
Click on this useful link for useful helpline numbers and services for survivors of sexual violence and abuse
What is domestic abuse?
Domestic abuse can take different forms including: domestic violence; rape and sexual abuse; forced marriage; so-called ‘honour’-based violence; human trafficking and modern slavery; prostitution; and female genital mutilation (FGM). Domestic abuse can be physical, emotional, psychological, financial or sexual. The Office for National Statistics reported in the year ending March 2019, 1.6 million women experienced domestic abuse. Two women a week are killed by a current or former partner in England and Wales alone.
We recognise some of the key reasons why older people find it hard to seek help.
- For people over 55 The abuse can be perpetrated by people who they are very dependent on and therefore making it very difficult for them to seek help.
- Some don’t understand what domestic abuse is e.g. Some are in relationships which started many years ago which meant at the time they didn't think they could get help or survive financially.
- It has been suggested that when police identify an older perpetrator who themselves may have care issues, they may be less likely to pursue court action.
- Some don't have access to a mobile phone or don't know how to use the internet.
- In recent years it has been suggested more people are learning that they can get support, and are relieved to know there is somewhere they can get advice from.
Age UK National has been instrumental in working with politicians to push through a Domestic Abuse Bill which will make it easier for women and men who have been domestically abused to bring perpetrators to justice through the legal system. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/domestic-abuse-bill-2020-factsheets/domestic-abuse-bill-2020-overarching-factsheet
We care about your wellbeing and want you to be safe!!
There are systems in place to help Lambeth residents who have or are experiencing domestic abuse. Lambeth Council’s strategy for Violence Against Women and Girls recognises that although the vast majority of domestic violence is against women and girls men and boys can also be victims of violence and we commit to address the needs of men and boys who may have experienced this, or been affected https://www.lambeth.gov.uk/sites/default/files/ssh-safer-lambeth-vawg-strategy-2016-2020_0.pdf
USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS
If you are in immediate danger call 999.
The Gaia Centre Lambeth - If you need help anytime during 24 hours. Call: 0808 2000 247
The Gaia Centre Lambeth - You can also call the Men's Advice Line (managed by Respect) for additional support on:
0808 801 0327
Age UK Lambeth MYCommunity Service is a useful gateway to help you get referred to professional help and support. Call - 0333 360 3700
HELPFUL LINKS TO THE ABOVE AND OTHER ORGANISATIONS
Refuge - The Gaia Centre Lambeth
Do you feel threatened or at risk of violence? The Gaia Centre Lambeth can support you.
https://www.refuge.org.uk/our-work/our-services/one-stop-shop-services/the-gaia-centre/
Age UK Lambeth MYcommunity
https://www.ageuk.org.uk/lambeth/our-services/mycommunity-lambeth/#
Get help and advice if you are at risk of homelessness due to domestic abuse https://www.lambeth.gov.uk/housing/housing-advice/advice-for-domestic-abuse-victims-who-are-at-risk-of-homelessness
See Lambeth Council’s Violence and Against Women and Girls Guide
https://www.lambeth.gov.uk/sites/default/files/sc-lambeth-vawg-resource-pack.pdf
See Age UK National’s useful helpline numbers, information and Press Release on domestic for women and men
https://www.ageuk.org.uk/our-impact/campaigning/no-age-limit/