Next Step Against Domestic Abuse

This Web Site was last updated on 21 August 2008.

Domestic Abuse is the physical, verbal, psychological, sexual or financial abuse of one person by another, with whom they have or have had an intimate relationship and can affect men and women regardless of age, culture, sex, disability or social status.

What is It?

Domestic abuse is the name used to describe all types of violence carried out by people on others in close relationships.

The abuse is not always physical - it can include sexual assualt, withholding of money, forced seperation from family or freiends and mental / emotional abuse such as name calling, put downs and threats to harm you, your children or your pets.

An important fact to remember about domestic abuse is that it is a crime.

Who does it affect?

Domestic abuse is a serious and widespread problem.

People from every class, race, culture and religion are abused, regardless of their age, sexuality or disability.

A staggering 1 in 5 of all British marriages / partnerships are believed to be affected by domestic abuse.

If you are a victim you are certainly and sadly not alone.

Next Step Helpline

Helpline: 01283 229854

Mobile: 079303958895

Office: 01283 224024

Address:

P.O. Box 6256

Swadlincote South Derbyshire

DE11 0YN

We will NOT call you back unless you leave your name, telephone number and a convenient time to call.

We will respond to all answer phone messages within 24 hours.

How You Can Help

My friend is experiencing domestic violence – what should I do? (Read More)

My Mum’s partner is abusive – how can I help her? (Read More)

My mum and I live with my dad but he mentally abuses my mum by shouting at her and saying nasty things. She cries all the time and says we don’t have enough money to leave. I’m 16 and doing my exams and just want all the noise to stop – can you help us? (Read More)

I’ve heard fighting going on at my next-door neighbour’s house. What can I do to stop it happening? (Read More)

My friend repeatedly keeps getting back together with her abusive boyfriend and I now find myself irritated, tired and getting angry with her, none of which are helpful. I don't want to desert her, but I’m so frustrated with the situation that I don't know what to think or do for the best. Any advice on what I can do? (Read More)

My friend is abusing his girlfriend and she has made me promise not to tell anyone. She has ended up in hospital a couple of times. If I did persuade her tell the staff how her injury happened would it be treated in confidence and not relayed to anyone without her consent? (Read More)