Domestic violence — National Domestic Abuse Helpline

Direct answer

You are not alone and there is a way out. National Domestic Abuse Helpline — 0808 2000 247 (0808 2000 247) is the confidential helpline for the UK — free, day and night, for you or for someone you are worried about; they arrange shelter, legal help and a safety plan, and nothing happens without your consent. In immediate danger, Police — 101 / report online (999 in an emergency) (101) — the police can remove the violent person from the home and issue a barring order the same day in most EU countries. Victim Support — 0808 168 9111 (0808 168 9111) supports you afterwards, free, with the report, the court and the practical side.

Call firstNational Domestic Abuse Helpline — 0808 2000 247

Report toPolice — 101 / report online (999 in an emergency)

If that failsVictim Support — 0808 168 9111

🗣️ What to say

"I am [being hurt / threatened] by my [partner / family member] at [address]. [I am in danger now / I am safe for the moment.] I would like to talk about my options — shelter, a protection order, and what happens if I report it."

🪜 Step by step

Safe firstIf you can, go to a neighbour, a friend, a shop. Take your phone and ID if it is safe to.
Call National Domestic Abuse Helpline — 0808 2000 247Anytime. They listen, they do not push, and they know every option in your area.
Danger now: Police — 101 / report online (999 in an emergency)Police can bar the violent person from the home for days or weeks without you having to leave.
Evidence, when safePhotos of injuries, a doctor's note, dated messages, witnesses. Useful later; never a condition for help.
Afterwards: Victim Support — 0808 168 9111Free support through the report, protection orders, housing and money. You decide the pace.

📇 All contacts

National Domestic Abuse Helpline — 0808 2000 247Free, confidential, 24/7; refugesDomestic abuse📞 0808 2000 247 🔗 www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk

Police — 101 / report online (999 in an emergency)Local police for any crime that is not fraudBurglary, theft, threats, stalking📞 101 🔗 www.police.uk

Victim Support — 0808 168 9111Free, confidential victim support; CICA compensationAfter any crime📞 0808 168 9111 🔗 www.victimsupport.org.uk

Rape Crisis — 24/7 support line 0808 500 2222 / SARCsSupport and forensic care after sexual violence, no report neededAnytime📞 0808 500 2222 🔗 rapecrisis.org.uk

Civil Legal Advice / Citizens Advice / Law CentresLegal aid on low income, free adviceWhen you cannot afford a solicitor📞 0345 345 4 345 🔗 www.gov.uk/civil-legal-advice

❓ Frequently asked

Will they take my children away?

The aim of every service is to keep you and the children safe together. Talking to the helpline is not a report to child protection.

I have no income of my own

Shelters are free; emergency financial help and housing priority exist for victims. The helpline arranges it.

My residence permit depends on my partner

Victims of domestic violence have a separate right to stay in most EU countries. Ask the helpline for a specialised legal adviser — leaving does not mean deportation.

📎 Sources

Last checked: 2026-09-26

🔎 Common searches

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“domestic violence helpline the UK”
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🆘 I am experiencing violence at home — where do I get help now?