Help available for domestic abuse victims and survivors in East Riding
East Riding of Yorkshire Council is supporting the 'You Are Not Alone' campaign
East Riding of Yorkshire Council is continuing its support of the national campaign 'You Are Not Alone'.
It aims to spread the message that there continues to be support available for victims and survivors of domestic abuse as always.
The authority is urging anyone who is dealing with domestic abuse, or anyone who is concerned that someone they know could be dealing with domestic abuse, to come forward and ask for help.
It said:
"Domestic abuse comes in many forms. It can involve physical violence, but it can also be psychological â something which is referred to as coercive and controlling behaviour. This type of abuse leaves no marks or scars but can cause victims to experience fear or loss of freedom on a daily basis. If your relationship leaves you feeling scared, intimidated or controlled, you may be in an abusive relationship.
"There is no excuse for abuse â itâs a crime. We would like to remind victims and survivors of domestic abuse that they are not alone and that the council, police and specialist support agencies are still here and able to provide help and support.
"The Domestic Violence and Abuse Partnership (DVAP) provide a pro-active service to victims and survivors who self-refer, or who are identified as being at risk of / are experiencing domestic abuse.
"DVAP can provide advice and support around: ⢠Personal safety ⢠Housing options ⢠Making your home safe and secure ⢠Legal options ⢠Welfare benefits ⢠Child Protection Issues and appropriate child related services ⢠Access to appropriate medical assistance ⢠The Freedom Programme (group) ⢠Volunteer Befriending Service"
Residents in the East Riding can now use the âoptions advisorâ on the councilâs website, and this can be accessed through a banner at the top of the DVAP webpage. The options advisor is an interactive means of support and advice within the DVAP part of the councilâs webpage. It asks the user a series of questions and provides a number of options in terms of information, support services and opportunities to complete a request for contact to the DVAP service.
The options advisor is completely confidential and a secure way of accessing important support. It is available 24-hours a day
The options advisor is available to use now by clicking the following link: https://www.eastriding.gov.uk/living/crime-and-community-safety/domestic-violence/domestic-violence-adult-services/
Phone contact can still be made to DVAP Adult Victim Services on (01482) 396368. Select option 1, then option 1 again during office hours.
Councillor Kerri Harold, portfolio holder for public health and tackling inequalities at the council, said:
âWe know the lockdown periods were difficult for everybody whilst we tried to remain safe, but we know that for some people home isnât necessarily a safe place to be. If you are living with someone who is hurting you, threatening you or doing anything that makes you feel worried or scared then you may feel even more isolated and afraid.
âNo one should have to deal with domestic abuse alone. Weâre supporting the Governmentâs #YouAreNotAlone campaign. Residents can now use the councilâs own âoptions advisorâ on the website should they feel they need help or advice but donât feel they can speak to somebody about their situations. The advisor is there for people 24-hours a day and can give advice should you suspect somebody else has become a victim of domestic abuse.
âI cannot stress enough that help is out there, and you do not need to suffer in silence. Despite these uncertain times, we want victims and survivors to come forward, speak out and be heard. You are not alone.â
Contact information
If you want information or advice, or just to talk to someone in a confidential setting please contact DVAP on either of the telephone numbers below:
DVAP Operational Team: (01482) 396368
Confidential Helpline: (01482) 396330
Email: DVAP@eastriding.gov.uk
Useful Numbers
IN AN EMERGENCY DIAL 999
DVAP (office hours only): (01482) 396368
Womenâs Aid (24hr): 0808 2000 247
ERYC Social Services (24hr): (01482) 393939
ERYC Housing (24hr): (01482) 393939
Victim Support: 0845 3030 900