Understanding How to Get Help and Report Domestic Abuse
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, getting help quickly and safely is essential. Reporting abuse not only protects you and others from further harm, but it also ensures that the right support and legal protections can be put in place. In the UK, victims of domestic abuse have access to a range of services, including confidential helplines, emergency accommodation, legal advice, and protection orders such as Non-Molestation Orders and Occupation Orders under the Family Law Act 1996.
Reaching out for help can feel daunting, but there are organisations and professionals ready to support you every step of the way. You can speak to the police, contact local support services, or use the National Domestic Violence Helpline for confidential advice and assistance at any time.
This guide will walk you through recognising the signs of abuse, gathering evidence, how to report domestic abuse to the police or other agencies, seeking legal protection, and accessing ongoing support. If you want to understand more about what domestic abuse is and the different forms it can take, you can read our domestic abuse overview for further information. Remember, you are not alone – help is available.
Recognising Abuse: The First Step to Getting Help
Domestic abuse is not limited to physical violence. It can also include emotional, psychological, and financial abuse. The law in England and Wales, under the Serious Crime Act 2015, recognises controlling or coercive behaviour as a criminal offence. Abuse can take many forms, such as threats, constant criticism, isolating someone from friends and family, or controlling access to money.
Some common signs of abuse include unexplained injuries, changes in behaviour, fearfulness around a partner, or feeling intimidated or manipulated. Financial abuse might involve a partner taking control of your income or preventing you from working. Emotional and psychological abuse can be harder to spot but may involve persistent belittling, humiliation, or threats.
Recognising abuse is the first and most important step to getting help. Understanding what counts as abuse helps you know when to seek support or report it to the authorities. If you’re unsure whether you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, you can find further guidance on recognising abuse, which explains the different types of abuse and the warning signs to look out for.
Gathering and Preserving Evidence of Abuse
Collecting and keeping evidence is an important step if you are experiencing domestic abuse. Having clear records can support your report to the police, help with legal actions such as obtaining a protection order, and make it easier for support services to assist you. Evidence might include photographs of injuries or damage, saved messages or emails, medical reports, and statements from witnesses. It is important to store this information safely and confidentially, making sure you do not put yourself at further risk.
For detailed guidance on what types of evidence to gather, how to collect it safely, and how to protect your privacy, see our dedicated page on gathering and preserving evidence of abuse. This resource explains best practices and your rights under UK law, helping you take the next steps with confidence.
Reporting Abuse: Your Options for Who to Contact
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, there are several places you can turn to for help. You can report abuse to the police, social services, or specialist charities and support organisations. Each option offers different types of support, from immediate protection and legal action to ongoing emotional and practical assistance.
Choosing who to contact depends on your situation. If you are in immediate danger, calling the police is the fastest way to get urgent help and protection. Social services can help if children or vulnerable adults are involved, while charities and other organisations can offer confidential advice and support, even if you are not ready to involve the authorities.
To help you decide the best route for your circumstances, see your options for who to contact when reporting abuse. This guide explains each reporting option in detail, including what to expect and how to stay safe.
You can also find more information about reporting abuse to other agencies, including organisations that specialise in supporting victims and providing legal advice.
Reporting Abuse to the Police
Reporting domestic abuse to the police is an important step in protecting yourself and others from harm. In the UK, you have the right to contact the police at any time if you feel threatened or unsafe. The police are trained to handle domestic abuse cases sensitively, and your safety is their priority. When you report abuse, you will be asked for details about what has happened, any immediate risks, and any evidence you may have, such as messages or photographs.
It’s natural to feel anxious about contacting the police, but you have legal protections under laws such as the Domestic Abuse Act 2021. You also have rights as a victim, including the right to be kept informed and to receive support throughout the process.
For step-by-step guidance on how to report abuse, what information to provide, and how to stay safe when contacting the police, visit our detailed guide on reporting abuse to the police.
After you report abuse, the police will begin an investigation. To learn more about what to expect during the police investigation after reporting abuse, including how you will be supported, see our next section.
Seeking Protection: Emergency Protection and Protective Orders
If you are experiencing domestic abuse, legal protection can be vital for your immediate safety and peace of mind. There are different types of court orders designed to protect victims from further harm. For urgent situations, emergency protection orders can provide immediate safety by restricting an abuser’s contact or removing them from the home. These orders are available quickly and can be a crucial first step if you are in danger.
Beyond emergency measures, there are a range of protective orders and injunctions that can help keep you and your loved ones safe. These may include non-molestation orders, occupation orders, and other legal tools that set clear boundaries and offer ongoing protection.
Applying for these orders often involves completing court forms and may require a hearing. Legal advice can help you understand your options and guide you through the process, especially if you are unsure which type of order you need or how to present evidence. Taking legal action can be a powerful way to prevent further abuse and secure your safety.
For more detailed guidance on each type of protection, including how to apply and what support is available, visit our dedicated pages on emergency protection orders and protective orders and injunctions.
Accessing Support Services and Assistance
If you are experiencing domestic abuse, a range of support services is available to help you stay safe and begin rebuilding your life. These include confidential helplines, counselling, and access to refuges where you can find emergency accommodation. Many organisations also offer practical help with safety planning – guiding you on steps to protect yourself and any children.
Victims of domestic abuse often need urgent help with finances and housing. You may be eligible for financial support or emergency accommodation under the Housing Act 1996 or other relevant UK laws. For more information on the types of support available, including how to access counselling, refuges, and safety planning, visit our page on support services for domestic abuse victims.
If you are worried about money or finding somewhere safe to live, there are specific programmes and legal protections that can help. Learn more about financial and housing assistance for abuse victims, including guidance on emergency housing options.
Support services understand the need for confidentiality. If you are concerned about your safety, you can contact most services anonymously and discuss the safest ways to get help without alerting your abuser. For detailed advice and step-by-step guidance, explore the related pages above.
Protecting Your Children and Reporting Child Abuse
When domestic abuse is present in a household, children may also be at risk – either as direct victims or as witnesses to harmful behaviour. Safeguarding your children is a top priority, and there are clear steps you can take to protect them.
If you suspect a child is experiencing abuse, it is important to act quickly. You can report concerns to the police or your local authority’s children’s services. UK law, including the Children and Families Act 2014, provides strong protections for children’s welfare and ensures their safety is put first.
Social services may become involved to assess the situation and offer support. They can work with you to create a safety plan and, if necessary, take legal steps to protect your child. You may also need to work with the courts to secure protection orders or arrange safe living arrangements. For more guidance on these processes, see our page on children and court protection.
For further practical advice and details on reporting, visit our page on protecting children from abuse. Remember, prioritising your child’s safety is essential, and support is available to help you take the right steps.
Understanding Legal Implications and Handling Domestic Abuse Charges
Domestic abuse is recognised as a serious criminal offence in the UK, covered by laws such as the Serious Crime Act 2015 and the Domestic Abuse Act 2021. This means that abusive behaviour – whether physical, emotional, financial, or controlling – can lead to criminal charges, police involvement, and court proceedings. Understanding how domestic abuse as a criminal offence is defined can help you know what actions are protected by law and what legal consequences may follow.
If you are a victim, you have the right to protection, support, and to be treated with respect throughout any investigation or legal process. You may be asked to provide statements or evidence, but you are also entitled to safety measures and support services. If you have been accused of domestic abuse, you also have legal rights, including the presumption of innocence until proven guilty, the right to remain silent, and the right to legal representation.
When domestic abuse charges are involved, both victims and those accused should expect police investigations, possible arrest, and court hearings. It is important to seek legal advice as early as possible – whether you are seeking protection or defending yourself against allegations. Legal professionals can help you understand your options, prepare evidence, and navigate the court process.
For more guidance on what the law says and practical steps you can take, visit our pages on domestic abuse as a criminal offence and handling domestic abuse charges. These pages offer detailed information on your rights, responsibilities, and the support available to help you through the process.
Additional Legal Protections: Stalking, Harassment and Workplace Assault
If you are experiencing domestic abuse, you may also face related issues such as stalking, harassment, or even assault in the workplace. UK law offers additional protections in these situations to help keep you safe.
Stalking and Harassment: The Protection from Harassment Act 1997 makes it a criminal offence to pursue a course of conduct that amounts to harassment or stalking. This includes repeated unwanted contact, following, or threatening behaviour, whether in person, online, or by phone. Victims can apply for restraining orders or injunctions to prevent further contact and protect themselves from harm. For more details on your legal options and how to seek these protections, see our guide to stalking and harassment protection.
Workplace Assault: Abuse or harassment can sometimes continue at your place of work, or you may be targeted there by a partner or ex-partner. The law protects you from physical assault or threatening behaviour in the workplace. Employers also have a duty to safeguard employees and respond appropriately if you report abuse or threats. Learn more about your workplace assault and legal rights, including what steps you and your employer can take.
These additional protections work alongside domestic abuse laws, helping you report incidents, obtain legal orders, and stay safe both at home and at work. If you need support, remember there are dedicated services and legal remedies available to help you.
