Suffolk women's refuge says it's seeing positive changes in response to domestic abuse
Domestic abuse survivors will soon be able to apply for up to £3000 to help them flee those responsible
A women's refuge in Bury St Edmunds says this generation is seeing massive positive changes in how people respond to domestic abuse.
This follows the government's announcement earlier this week that domestic abuse survivors in England and Wales will be able to apply for up to £3000 to help them flee those responsible.
They will initially receive £500 and then a further £2500 later.
How this money will help
Katherine Ahluwalia is the principal operations manager for Women's Aid in Bury St Edmunds.
She told us this is a "lifeline" for victims: "To have this money and have access to it is extraordinary and very well needed."
She explained that if victims leave their abuser it's often done "with the clothes on their back" meaning they have no form of ID.
Without ID, these individuals cannot set up a bank account or access benefits.
Not only this but driver's licences, birth certificates and passports all cost money to replace.
Katherine went on to tell us how else this money could be used: "Funds to get a train or a taxi to the station, clothes, food or toiletries."
She explained at Women's Aid in Bury St Edmunds if they are talking to someone experiencing domestic abuse, who is planning to leave, they encourage them to "squirrel away" some money and try to get hold of their birth certificate.
However she does understand that many people in this situation may have "complex PTSD and trauma" and so encourages people to reach out if they can, so they can get help.
As well as helping in the initial stages of leaving these situations, Katherine told us the money will also help to "stop homelessness" as many people who flee end up as "hidden homeless" through sofa surfing: "Homelessness doesn't necessarily mean that you're living on the street...
"This money could be used to put down a deposit on a rental property."
How to help someone
Katherine revealed that many people who go to them for help tell them that "no one asked" and is encouraging people who suspect someone may be in danger to ask them discreetly, and not when anyone else is around for example, "How are things at home?"
As well as reassuring these individuals that you will be there for them should they ever need you, you should confirm that whatever is said will be in confidence.
Katherine also suggested giving them your phone as theirs may be being monitored, and this would provide them a way to contact others.
There is also the national 24 hour helpline for domestic abuse, which is 24/7 and can offer advice, support and help to those who use it.
Signs to Spot Domestic Abuse
Katherine encourages people to take note of any changes in an individual, whether they're colleagues, friends or family: "Are they withdrawing? Have you seen their self belief or worth change?
"It can be different for different people, so it's not one size fits all, but the biggest thing is we know people and we do start to see a change in people."
Where to find help
If you are in immediate danger call the police on 999.
Womens Aid Bury St Edmunds:
If you need help get in touch by calling 0330 551 9495 or emailingadmin@burystedmundswomensaid.org.uk
Lighthouse Women's Centre in Ipswich:
Advice Line: 01473 228 270 Email:info@lighthousewa.org.uk
National Domestic Violence Helpline:
If you're a woman experiencing domestic abuse. Phone Number 0808 2000 247
If you're a man experiencing domestic abuse contact the Men's Advice Line on 0808 801 0327
If you are in a same-sex relationship you can call the National LGBT Domestic Violence Helpline on 0800 999 5428