Domestic abuse

Advice and support

If you are in immediate danger, please call 999

If you need to talk to someone you can contact

• Clare House Women's Refuge and 24 Hour Helpline - 01772 435865
• Key Unlocking Futures Charity
• Men's Advice Line
• Karma Nirvana - Honour Based Violence and Forced Marriage
• Womens Aid 

Sanctuary Scheme

Many people live in fear in their own homes. Survivors of domestic violence often have to leave their homes as a result of the abuse or the threat of repeat incidents.

Run in partnership with Chorley Council, the Sanctuary Scheme aims to offer another option for those who would otherwise have to move house and leave everything and everyone behind at a time when they need their support networks the most.

This is done by providing additional security to their property.

To be eligible to apply to the scheme you must:

• Live within the Chorley and South Ribble area
• Be a survivor of domestic violence
• Have a right to occupy the property for example have (or live with a family member who has) a tenancy in their name or own the property
• Wish to remain in that property
• The perpetrator must no longer reside at or be given access to the property.

sanctuary@southribble.gov.uk or call 01772 625 625

Lancashire Victims Services

If a domestic abuse incident has been reported to the Police, you will automatically be contacted by Lancashire Victim's Services if they have your contact number. They will see how you are after the incident and will offer you independent support if you want it.

Types of abuse in relationships

Not everyone recognises that they may be in an abusive relationship, behaviours can include:

Physical abuse

Such as acts of violence which can include pushing, hitting, punching, kicking, choking and using weapons.

Verbal abuse

Verbal abuse can include being sworn as, called names, being put down all the time

Emotional abuse

Emotional abuse can include telling you that you are a bad parent, constantly criticizing or blackmailing you, making you feel guilty

Financial Abuse

Not letting you go to work or have access to a bank card, running debts up in your name such as mortgage or rent arrears, credit card debts.

Coercive control

Isolating you from friends and family, controlling your finances, checking your mobile and social media sites, stopping you from seeking medical help

Psychological Abuse

Is the impact the abusive behaviour has on an individual resulting in psychological trauma such as anxiety, depression or post-traumatic stress disorder.

Sexual abuse

Is when you feel pressured into sexual activity for fear of what might happen if you don't. It can also include being forced, such as rape.