What to do if you are experiencing domestic abuse and need to leave your home.
The best way to keep yourself or someone you care about safe from abuse is to tell someone. It might be hard, especially if the person hurting you is a friend or family member, but abuse is never okay.
You don’t have to deal with it alone, there are people who can help you stop it.
In an emergency or when you or your children feel threatened always call the police on 999.
If you need to speak to the police but it's not an emergency call 101.
Anyone can go through domestic abuse or sexual violence. There are different types of abuse. It could be a partner, an ex-partner, or a family member hurting you at home.
Depending on your situation, you might be able to stay at home, but sometimes it's safer to leave. If you're a victim of domestic abuse, you can ask for an Occupation Order to stay in your home.
This order will say who can live in the family home or come near it.
Occupation orders are rules that can stop someone from coming to your home or the area around it. They can be granted if you own the home, rent it, or share the rent with someone. If you live in another person's home, the order might only last for a short time.
Key Points About Occupation Orders:
If you think you might need an Occupation Order, it's important to talk to a solicitor. They can help you understand what to do and what your choices are.
If you tell us, you are experiencing domestic abuse, we must provide you with a safe place to live. We will:
Remember, there are people ready to help you, and you don't have to go through this alone. If you need help right away, call 999.
There are also other resources in Torbay for people experiencing domestic abuse.
Following are some additional resources available throughout Devon for those experiencing domestic abuse: