Domestic Violence

Domestic Violence is a crime. You have the right to live your life free from fear, violence or abuse. You may feel humiliated, frightened, ashamed or alone - but you are not to blame. Domestic abuse is very common - it can happen to any man or woman regardless of age, class, disability, race, sexuality or lifestyle.

Telephone Domestic Violence Co-ordinator for more information on 01709 334567

or email: sandra.mcneill@rotherham.gov.uk or vera.trimmer@rotherham.gov.uk

Domestic abuse is about power and control, it can involve physical, emotional and financial abuse, usually by a man towards a woman. You, and your children, may be abused by a partner, ex-partner or family member. Abuse is rarely a one-off event - it tends to get worse over time. You don't have to put with it.

If you would like advice, information, somewhere safe to stay, or simply want someone to listen, you can ring one of the services listed below, or the National Domestic Violence Helpline on FREEPHONE 0808 2000 247.

If you want to leave home and have time to plan ahead use the following advice:

try to save some money for taxi or bus fares
keep together the things you might need e.g. keys, benefit books, medical and national insurance cards, passports, birth and marriage certificates, address book
take your children with you, if you can
take a few clothes, children's favourite things, and any essential medicines
try to work out the safest time to leave - if you need any help with safety planning, you could talk to one of the support services listed below.

The safety of you and your children is most important - many women leave with nothing, and sort out the details once they are safe.

Corporate Domestic Violence Policy (149Kb)
Employee Domestic Violence Policy (138Kb)
This is a PDF Document Icon Rotherham Domestic Violence Strategy (329Kb)

Domestic Violence Training Courses are available for workers from all sectors. Please contact the Rotherham Borough Council Domestic Violence Co-ordinator for more information on 01709 334567

South Yorkshire Police
Emergency - 999
Other Enquiries - 0114 220 2020
Police Domestic Violence Officers (9am-5pm) - 01709 832670 or 832671

Help, Support & Safe Emergency Accommodation
National Domestic Violence Helpline - 0808 2000 247
Samaritans - 01709 361717

Local Community Support Services
Choices and Options - 01709 838400
Apna Haq - 01709 519211
Victim Support - 01709 361076
Rotherham Womens Refuge - 0870 8502247

Housing
Housing Needs - 01709 382121 (Ext - 3413)
Emergency Out of Hours - 07748 143170

Social Services
Children's Social Care - 01709 823987
Emergency Out of Hours - 01709 364689
Vulnerable Adults - 01709 382121 (Ext - 3907)

Help and Advice for Children and Young People
Childline - 0800 1111
NSPCC Helpline - 0800 800 500
Youth Start (Aged 11-25) Open Referral - 01709 820100
Risky Business (Advice & Support to Girls and Young Women at risk of Sexual Exploitation) - 01709 515423

Additional Support Services
Rape Crisis - Sheffield Rape and Sexual Abuse Counselling Service Helpline
(Thurs 6pm-8pm) (Fri 1pm-3pm) Or By Appointment - 0114 244 7936

Doncaster Rape and Sexual Abuse Counselling Service Helpline
(Mon 5pm-7pm) (Tues 9.30am-10.30am) (Thurs 1.30pm-2.30pm) Or By Appointment - 01302 360421

Mens Advice Line - 0808 801 0327

Womens Aid