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Domestic abuse

What to do if you are experiencing domestic abuse and need to leave your home.

Anyone can experience domestic abuse or sexual violence. There are many kinds of abuse. It could be a partner, an ex-partner or member of your family that is abusing you in your own home.

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.

Housing

Depending on your circumstances, it may be possible for you to stay in your home. It may be safer for you to leave though.

Try not to make a final decision to give up your home until you have been given advice. You can get information about your rights and the options available to you from:

You can then make some decisions about what is best for you and any children who may live with you.

Applying for housing

If you tell us that you are experiencing domestic abuse, we have a duty to provide you with somewhere safe to live. We will also:

  • assign a housing options officer to support you
  • help you fill in a homeless application
  • assess your housing needs
  • add you to the Devon Home Choice waiting list if you are eligible
  • work with you to agree a personal housing plan which will show how we will find you a safe place to live
  • work with you for 8 weeks or until we find you a safe place to live
Apply for help with housing

Getting help

You do not need to make a formal report to the police to get access to help and support. You can get advice on the Are you OK? website. There is information on:

There is also a directory of local and national services and helplines that can help you.

Search the Are you OK? directory

Contact Housing