For Professionals

For Professionals

Our support service is for people affected by domestic abuse living in West Norfolk, North Norfolk and Swaffham, the abuse can be current or historic. Our service offers telephone support, one-to-one support and group programmes for adults and children. We are client led and can work with clients in many ways, ie, domestic abuse awareness, safety planning, help with housing or refuge if appropriate or just someone to talk to. We work alongside other agencies, including the police and Children’s Services and can signpost if necessary. Through our support, survivors will gain control of their lives by improving their confidence and self-esteem. They will feel empowered in knowing how to make positive relationship choices for themselves and their children.

If you have a client who has disclosed domestic abuse and needs specialist support, please contact us.

How can professionals help?

Environment

  • Have posters and leaflets available in the service.
  • Make sure clients see a worker by themselves; never ask questions if a partner is present.
  • Ask if the client would be more comfortable speaking to someone of the same gender.

Questions

  • Reassure them that the abuse is not their fault.
  • Validate feelings and believe what they are telling you.
  • Ask clear questions.
  • Be clear and honest about the limits of confidentiality.
  • Ask how you can support through referrals to other services.

Examples of questions to ask

  • Does your partner ever frighten you or hurt you or your children?
  • Do you spend a lot of time trying to keep your partner happy?
  • What happens when your partner is angry?
  • Do you ever have sex with your partner even if you don’t feel like it?
  • Does your partner make it difficult for you to visit friends or leave the house?
  • Does your partner control your money?
  • Is there anyone you can talk to when you are frightened or upset?

Why should professionals work on the prevention of domestic abuse?

  • Attitudes are made early in life and children who are living with an abuser are being influenced on a daily basis.
  • Many young people still think that abusing a partner is acceptable in certain circumstances.
  • Many victims of domestic abuse say they would have left earlier had they known more about recognising an abusive relationship and where to get help.
  • Many young people are not aware of what a healthy or unhealthy relationship is.
  • Everyone has the right to live without fear and abuse in their lives.

If we work together to educate people about domestic abuse, we will all benefit from a safer community.