Domestic Violence Awareness Month
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month – a chance to come together to raise awareness and take action to end abuse.
As a proud member of the Domestic Abuse Housing Alliance, working towards accredited status, we’re committed to being one of the very best in the way we support survivors or those at risk of experiencing domestic abuse across everything we do.
We’ll be using the month to help raise awareness, provide information on the support we provide and to sign-post to other local and national partners and organisations who can help.
The impact of Domestic Abuse
According to the Office for National Statistics, it’s estimated that 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime – friends, neighbours and family members who may be suffering in silence.
Abuse is not limited to physical violence, it can also include emotional, financial, sexual, and coercive control. Its effects reach far beyond the survivor, affecting children, families, and wider society.
Tackling domestic abuse requires not only supporting those affected but also challenging harmful behaviours and attitudes that allow it to continue.
How you can help
- Educate yourself and others: Understand the signs of abuse and share information in your community – there’s lots of information on Refuge's website
- Support survivors: Listen without judgement, believe their experiences, and encourage them to seek help.
- Wear purple: The colour purple represents Domestic Violence Awareness Month—show your solidarity by wearing it this October.
Support services
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, confidential help is available – please don’t suffer in silence:
- JUNO Women’s Aid: 0808 800 0340 (this is a local service)
- National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247 – free, 24 hours a day
- Galop (LGBT+ anti-abuse helpline): 0800 999 5428
Are you a man experiencing or at risk or domestic abuse?
Equation is a local service that offers specialist support by calling 0800 995 6999 or by emailing helpline@equation.org.uk. Or visit their website
And, if you, or someone else, is in immediate danger, dial 999.
This October, let’s stand together to break the silence around domestic abuse.
