Shila

Domestic violence Too often the crime of domestic violence is hidden away, but we are determined to bring it out into the open and address its root causes. What is meant by 'domestic violence'? Domestic violence is any incident of threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between adults who are or have been in a relationship together, or between family members, regardless of gender or sexuality. Facts & figures Although domestic violence is chronically under reported, research estimates it: * accounts for 16% of all violent crime * will affect 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men in their lifetime * 77% of victims of domestic violence are women * has more repeat victims than any other crime (on average there will have been 35 assaults before a victim calls the police) * on average, two women are killed every week by a current or former male partner * one incident of domestic violence is reported to the police every minute (Source: Crime in England and Wales 2006/07 report) Whatever form it takes, domestic violence is rarely a one-off incident. More usually it's a pattern of abusive and controlling behaviour through which the abuser seeks power over their victim. Domestic violence occurs across society, regardless of age, gender, race, sexuality, wealth and geography. The figures show, however, that it consists mainly of violence by men against women. Victims of domestic violence suffer on many levels - health, housing, education - and lose the freedom to live their lives how they want, and without fear. We aim to support victims of domestic violence with a range of new measures What we're doing about domestic violence We have invested £14 million into tackling the problem of domestic violence and have developed a Domestic Violence National Action Plan. Domestic Violence National Action Plan Domestic Violence: A national report (new window) sets out our progress so far in tackling the crime. It also details the Domestic Violence National Action Plan proposals to further improve support for victims and bring more perpetrators to justice. Lessons Learned from Domestic Violence Enforcement Campaigns 2006 draws from the experiences of 19 police forces trying innovative techniques over a four-month period in 2006. Their successes and failures form guidelines for police, local authorities and support groups. New laws to increase protection from domestic violence The Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act 2004 was introduced to increase the protection, support and rights of victims and witnesses. It also gives the police and other agencies the tools to get to the heart of domestic violence crimes. The Act is a key part of our aim of putting victims at the heart of the criminal justice system. How you can get help If you are a victim of domestic violence, or are a concerned friend or relative, you can get the help and support you need. Domestic violence helplines The following helplines can offer you practical help and advice including: * emergency refuge accommodation * safety planning and advice * translation facilities if you have difficulty communicating in English English National Domestic Violence helpline 0808 2000 247 Northern Ireland Women's Aid 24 Hour Domestic Violence Helpline 028 9033 1818 Scottish Domestic Abuse Helpline 0800 027 1234 Wales Domestic Abuse Helpline 0808 80 10 800 www.wdah.org Male Advice & Enquiry Line 0845 064 6800 The Dyn Wales/Dyn Cymru Helpline 0808 801 0321 www.homeoffice.gov.uk/crime-victims/reducing-crime/domestic-violence