Speak out against domestic abuse

Domestic abuse awareness week aims to encourage anyone - whether they are a victim themselves or they suspect someone they know is suffering domestic abuse - to speak out and make a difference.

Events will take place across the county to raise awareness of the help and support available to victims as well as the advice and information available for concerned family members, neighbours, close friends or work colleagues.

Raising awareness

Domestic abuse often takes place behind closed doors and can leave victims feeling extremely isolated, which is why initiatives like this week are so important in raising awareness of the support available and encouraging people to speak out against it and break the cycle of abuse

The message from all domestic abuse services is simple - if you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse speak out today by contacting your local service for support, information and advice.

Getting support

Emma*, a survivor of domestic abuse, spoke out 12 years ago but remembers how difficult it was to seek help.

"I felt very alone, very unable to tell anybody what was happening. There was this facade that all was well with the world but once the front door was shut it was a very different story."

With the support of friends, Emma left her abusive relationship and has a clear message to anyone living with domestic abuse.

"It's very daunting to get yourself out of that type of situation," she explained. "But there is light at the end of the tunnel. You don't need to accept that behaviour - none of it is of your causing and you haven't deserved any of it."

*Emma's name has been changed to protect her anonymity. 

Who to contact

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse:

Call the confidential yourSanctuary Surrey 24 hour domestic abuse helpline on 01483 776822 or visit yoursanctuary online

To report domestic abuse call Surrey Police on 101. In an emergency always dial 999. Visit the Surrey Police website to report online.

You can give information anonymously about a crime by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or by visiting: www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

You can also contact Surrey's local outreach services for support, advice and access to specialist services. Visit Surrey County Council's website for full details on domestic abuse awareness week.

Details for Surrey local outreach services:

South West Surrey Outreach: 01483 577392

Serving Guildford and Waverley

East Surrey Outreach: 01737 771350

Serving Reigate and Banstead, Mole Valley and Tandridge

yourSanctuary Outreach: 01483 776822

Serving Woking, Runnymede and Surrey Heath

North Surrey Outreach: 01932 260690

Serving Epsom and Ewell, Elmbridge, Spelthorne