Domestic abuse

If you are experiencing domestic abuse from a partner, ex-partner or family member, you can get free and confidential help.

What is domestic abuse?

Domestic abuse can take many forms including:

Physical abuse may include slapping, punching, spitting, pinching or grabbing
Emotional or mental abuse may involve constant criticism, threats to you or your family, not allowing you to sleep or have your freedom, withholding food or money.
Sexual abuse may include being forced to have sex without consent or to do things that make you feel uncomfortable
Harassment may include phone calls, following you, turning up at work or where you are socialising, sitting outside your house.

You can get help and support from a number of local and Greater Manchester organisations:

Domestic Abuse
Organisation	Helpline
Police (non emergency)	101
Police (emergency)	999
DIAS (Drop In And Share) (external link)	01942 495230
Victim Support (external link) - Greater Manchester and Wigan	0300 303 0162
RESPECT (external link) - Help for those using violence or abuse in their relationship.	0808 802 4040
National Domestic Abuse helpline (external link) - A national service for women experiencing domestic violence, their family, friends, colleagues and others calling on their behalf.	0808 200 0247 (24 hour helpline)
Wigan Council Housing Options Team - For advice on your housing situation and if you're threatened with homelessness.	01942 489005 or fill in our online referral form
Your Housing Group (external link) - Domestic abuse refuge provision.	0345 345 0272 (24 hour helpline)
End the Fear (external link) - Support for anyone who is experiencing domestic violence or abuse.	0161 636 7525
Sitting right with you (external link) - Campaign launched to raise awareness of the 'hidden' types of domestic abuse and encourage people affected to start talking.	0161 636 7525