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Domestic abuse

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.

Housing Options

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.

What is an “Occupation Order”

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:

  • It says who can live in the home, who must leave, and who can come in.
  • It can keep you safe by making sure an abusive partner stays out of the home.
  • These orders usually last for a set time but can be extended if needed.
  • To apply, you need to have the right to live in the home, like being an owner, renter, or having marriage home rights.

Applying for an Occupation Order

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.

Applying for Housing

If you tell us, you are experiencing domestic abuse, we must provide you with a safe place to live. We will:

  • Assign a housing options officer to support you
  • Help you fill out a homeless application
  • Assess your housing needs
  • Add you to the Devon Home Choice waiting list if you are eligible
  • Work with you to create a personal housing plan to find you a safe place to live
  • Support you for 8 weeks or until we find you a safe place to live

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:

  • FearFree: supporting people dealing with Domestic Abuse, Sexual Violence and Stalking. You can contact them at 0345 155 1074.
  • Devon Domestic Abuse Service Helpline: For immediate support, call their helpline on 0345 155 1074. They offer advice and can help with referrals to other services.
  • Devon Rape Crisis: They support victims aged 13 and older who have experienced rape or sexual assault. Call 01392 204 174 or email support@devonrapecrisis.org.uk.
  • National Men’s Advice Line: For male victims of domestic abuse, you can call 0808 801 0327, Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm.